US health department opens public comment on vaccine guidelines

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced a public consultation on federal vaccine recommendations, inviting feedback on how vaccines are categorised and communicated. The move follows an executive order by President Donald Trump that seeks to limit the childhood immunisation schedule to 11 vaccines.

In a notice posted on Friday, HHS asked for comments on possible changes to vaccine categories. These include whether some vaccines should be recommended but not during infancy, or recommended with qualifications. The department also wants input on how recommendations should address the timing and sequencing of shots, such as whether vaccines could be given within broader age windows or at separate visits.

Members of the public, including parents, doctors, and health officials, have until September 20 to submit their views.

Trump's executive order, signed earlier this month, directs officials to review the timing and sequencing of vaccinations. It advances a long-standing goal of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has promoted a link between vaccines and autism—a claim that scientists have repeatedly debunked.

Currently, vaccines are categorised as routine for everyone, risk-based for specific groups, or left to shared decision-making between patients and doctors. HHS is specifically seeking feedback on shared decision-making, including potential risks such as confusion among patients and doctors, lower vaccination rates, and added time for clinicians.

The agency noted that public trust in federal health authorities declined during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. It cited concerns that some past recommendation processes were seen as rushed or overconfident, which hurt the overall credibility of the vaccine system.

HHS said the feedback will help inform its consideration of whether the current framework adequately supports scientific rigour, informed choice, and public trust.