Recent updates too childhood vaccination schedules from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are prompting careful review by pediatricians in Puerto Rico. As of January 9, 2026, healthcare professionals are assessing the potential impact of these changes on public health strategies within the territory.
I’ve found that changes to recommended immunizations always generate discussion, and this situation is no different. It’s crucial to understand the reasoning behind these adjustments and how they might affect your family’s health.
Understanding the Revised Vaccination Recommendations
The updated CDC schedule, influenced by the leadership of federal Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., proposes a reduction in the number of routinely recommended vaccines for children, moving from 17 to 11. This shift focuses on a more individualized approach, with certain vaccines – including those for COVID-19, hepatitis B, and rotavirus – now recommended based on clinical decision-making.
This change has sparked concern among some medical professionals. pediatrician Ana Medina Mateo,a member of the Puerto Rican Pediatric Society (SPP) board,emphasized that the SPP generally follows the guidelines established by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and other respected organizations that champion vaccination as a vital preventative measure.
“For many years, vaccination schedules have been developed based on scientific evidence,” explained Medina Mateo. “The schedules pediatricians utilize are endorsed by the AAP, the CDC, and other leading institutions.”
She described the new CDC schedule as possibly “detrimental,” highlighting the importance of maintaining robust immunization coverage to protect against preventable diseases. The concern stems from the possibility that a reduced schedule could lead to decreased immunity within the population.
Did You Know? According to the CDC, vaccination is one of the most accomplished public health interventions, preventing millions of cases of disease and saving countless lives each year.
Puerto Rico’s Response and Funding considerations
Puerto Rico’s Department of Health (DS) Secretary, Víctor Ramos Otero, has acknowledged the need for a thorough evaluation of the federal changes. He stated that each state and territory implements vaccination
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