The Rhode Island Department of Health and the Northeast Public Health Collaborative are recommending families follow the American Academy of Pediatrics’ vaccine schedule in the wake of recent changes to federal childhood immunization guidance.
On Jan. 5, Acting Director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention signed a decision memorandum that reduced the number of immunizations routinely recommended for all U.S. children. However, state health officials said the change does not affect vaccine access or insurance coverage in Rhode Island.
Rhode Island’s school immunization schedule is also not affected. All current immunization requirements for school and childcare attendance remain in effect, and schools should continue to follow existing state regulations and guidance issued by RIDOH, according to the department.
“Early childhood vaccinations protect children when they’re most vulnerable. They protect against illnesses that can have devastating effects on children,” said Director of Health Jerry Larkin. “Rhode Island has some of the best childhood vaccination rates in the country because we make vaccine access a priority, and because we base our recommendations on science and data. The science and data are clear – vaccines save lives.”
According to RIDOH, the CDC’s changes to the childhood vaccine schedule did not follow established procedures for vaccine recommendations.
“This change also creates confusion for families already trying to navigate a complex system and sows doubt about the effectiveness and science behind vaccines,” the department said in a statement.
The Northeast Public Health Collaborative is a voluntary coalition of public health agencies working together to share expertise, improve coordination and protect evidence-based public health practices.
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