Science and Medicine

Childhood immunizations in the United States

Vaccines provide immunity to children before exposure to potentially serious infectious diseases, and play a central role in preventing the spread of diseases with epidemic potential. The schedule for childhood immunizations in the United States (US) is published and routinely updated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The childhood vaccine schedule is designed specifically to deliver protection during periods of greatest vulnerability. The schedule includes vaccines of several different types against viral and bacterial infections including hepatitis B, rotavirus, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type b, pneumococcal disease, polio, influenza, varicella, hepatitis A, measles, mumps, rubella, meningococcal disease, and human papillomavirus. Childhood immunization in the US has been affected by recurring vaccine hesitancy and anti-vaccine activism, including concerns about vaccine safety, vaccine ingredients, and the number and timing of recommended vaccines. Routine childhood vaccination in the US was disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic, but immunization rates returned to near pre-pandemic levels by 2024. Common adverse reactions to vaccines are usually mild and self-limited, while serious adverse events caused by vaccination are rare. Immunization guidance also identifies precautions and contraindications for children in whom specific vaccines should be delayed or avoided. Among children born in the US between 1994 and 2023, it is estimated that routine childhood vaccinations prevented approximately 508 million illnesses, 32 million hospitalizations, and over 1 million deaths.

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• ▸Animal
• ▸Brooks-Scanlon Corporation 1
• ▸Frances Farmer

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