Updated Tuesday, January 6, 2026
The New York Academy of Medicine reaffirms our commitment to vaccine science and evidence-based guidelines that are the cornerstones of population health progress. We stand in opposition to the decision yesterday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to change the childhood immunization schedule. This abrupt change bypassed the standard transparent review process and stakeholder input, a move that is reckless and risks undermining public trust and child health.
The Science is Clear
Vaccines are one of medicine’s greatest advances, with decades of strong, validated evidence supporting immunization. In the United States over the past 30 years, childhood vaccinations have prevented an estimated 508 million illnesses, 32 million hospitalizations, and over one million deaths. [1] The return on investment from childhood vaccinations is $11 and for adult vaccination up to $19 for every dollar spent, not only saving lives but preserving a healthier workforce and our national economy. [2]
These outcomes reflect the dedication of researchers and healthcare providers working to keep communities safe.
Stance from Other Leading Scientific and Medical Organizations
Our position aligns with organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, which called yesterday’s decision “dangerous and unnecessary,”[3] and indicated it would continue to publish its own recommendations. The Infectious Disease Society of America called the change a “reckless step.”[4] Leading scientific and medical organizations collectively affirm that vaccines undergo thorough clinical trials and safety monitoring, meeting high standards of scientific rigor, and recognize that immunizations save lives and protect public health by preventing severe disease and hospitalizations.
Building Trust
Trust in vaccines depends on ongoing transparency and scientific credibility. Through research, education, and community partnerships, New York Academy of Medicine is committed to providing accurate, evidence-based information.
The following resources may be helpful to individuals seeking trustworthy information on vaccine practices:
- Children’s Hospital-CHOP Vaccine Center
- American Academy of Pediatrics’ “Vaccine Confidence Campaign” social media toolkit
- Northeast Public Health Collaborative – NYC Health
- Securing the Foundation: Stakeholder Insights and Strategies for Maintaining a Strong Vaccine Infrastructure Across the US
Sources:
[1] Zhou F, Jatlaoui TC, Leidner AJ, et al. Health and Economic Benefits of Routine Childhood Immunizations in the Era of the Vaccines for Children Program — United States, 1994–2023. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2024;73:682–685. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7331a2
[2] El Banhawi H., Chowdhury S., Neri M., Radu P., Besley S., Bell E., Brassel S., Steuten L., , Socio-Economic Value of Adult Immunisation Programmes (2024). Contract Research. Available from https://www.ohe.org/publications/the-socio-economic-value-of-adult-immunisation-programmes/.
[3] AAP Opposes Federal Health Officials’ Unprecedented Move to Remove Universal Childhood Immunization Recommendations
[4] CDC’s new vaccine guidance faces backlash from pediatricians as ‘dangerous’ and ‘reckless’