Healthcare organizations in Montana have issued a statement expressing concern over recent changes to the childhood immunization schedule announced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on January 5. The new CDC guidance is based partly on Denmark’s immunization practices and no longer recommends routine vaccination against several diseases, including hepatitis A and B, rotavirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and meningococcal disease.
The Montana Medical Association, the Montana Academy of Family Physicians, and the Montana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics jointly signed the editorial. They argue that bypassing the traditional review process for immunization recommendations undermines public health.
“The U.S. immunization schedule has traditionally relied on a careful, ongoing review of evidence and data by doctors and scientists. This process has ensured that newborns, infants, and children are protected from diseases they may encounter as they grow. However, today’s decision—apparently based on a brief comparison to practices in other countries—undermines this rigorous, data-driven approach,” according to the statement.
Federal officials have indicated that Denmark’s model influenced these changes. The Montana groups strongly disagree with using another country’s framework without clear evidence that it would better protect American children.
“These vaccines are recommended for good reason. Widespread immunization has dramatically reduced pediatric hospitalizations and severe health complications in the U.S. Removing universal vaccine recommendations puts this progress at risk and could lead to more children suffering from preventable diseases, such as meningitis, liver failure, and severe respiratory illnesses. It also weakens the community protection that keeps all Montanans safe.”
The organizations emphasize differences between Denmark and the United States regarding population size, public health infrastructure, and disease risks.
“No parent is required to immunize his or her child. However, every parent deserves clear, accurate and science-backed information. Thoughtful recommendations from experts in children’s health makes a big difference to families, and the CDC’s arbitrary actions mean it is no longer a credible source of guidance.”
They cite historical data showing that vaccines prevented hundreds of millions of illnesses between 1994 and 2023 in the United States.
“Immunization is crucial. Between 1994 and 2023, vaccines helped prevent over 500 million illnesses and 1.1 million early deaths from diseases like influenza, whooping cough, pneumonia, meningitis, hepatitis, and polio. Montana medical organizations and healthcare professionals remain committed to advising families about the importance of immunization. We continue to recommend vaccines to protect children from these dangerous diseases.”
Although parents can still choose to vaccinate their children under current rules, there are concerns about future access or insurance coverage if federal guidance affects local policies.
“We will be following this closely and want all Montanans to know that if they have questions about immunizations, we are here to help. Physician organizations have also taken the lead in publishing our own evidence-based vaccine schedule. Every family deserves accurate information, transparent recommendations, and seamless access to immunizations that can protect their children.”
The signatories reaffirm their commitment to providing science-based advice on childhood vaccinations for families across Montana.
