What You Need to Know About the New Executive Order on Childhood Vaccines

A new executive order signed on August 10 has many parents questioning their children’s vaccinations. The new order aims to reduce the number of childhood vaccines, space them out and provide funding for research. There is also funding to develop a disease-specific alternative for the current Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. 

While news of the executive order may seem confusing, Katharine Clouser, M.D., pediatric specialist at Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital at Hackensack University Medical Center, says there are no immediate changes that will impact your child.

“Nothing about the vaccines your child needs will change overnight,” she says. “The executive order provides guidance for federal institutions on research and funding. It does not remove any vaccine from the market, does not change what New Jersey schools require and does not change current insurance coverage. Parents should keep their child's scheduled well visits and talk with their pediatrician.”

Will My Child’s Vaccine Schedule Change? 

Your child’s vaccine schedule will still remain the same. All Hackensack Meridian Health physicians continue to follow the 2026 immunization schedule set forth by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). All of the immunizations and the schedule have been proven safe and effective. 

Are There Currently Separate Vaccines for Measles, Mumps and Rubella?

Separate vaccines for Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) are currently not available in the U.S. Two MMR vaccines are available in the United States: M-M-R II and PRIORIX — both combination products that have been shown in research to be safe and effective since 1971. European countries also use the combined MMR vaccine.

Are There Benefits To Splitting Or Spacing Out My Child’s Vaccines?

Dr. Clouser emphasizes that there are no benefits to spacing out vaccines, but there are risks. 

“Every extra visit is an extra chance to fall behind. Fewer needles and fewer visits mean fewer chances for a child to fall through the cracks of the immunization schedule,” she says. 

She also points out that spacing vaccines out would require 22 vaccine visits in the first year, compared with the current 5-6 visits necessary. In addition to increasing the likelihood of injection-related side effects, such as pain, fever and redness, it also increases the burden for parents who would have to take their child to more frequent appointments. Dr. Clouser encourages parents to continue to work with their pediatrician to schedule the appropriate vaccines for their child. 

Can Childhood Vaccines Cause Autism?

There is no link between Autism and childhood vaccines. The American Academy of Pediatrics has stated: "Since 1998, independent researchers across seven countries have conducted more than 40 high-quality studies involving over 5.6 million people. The conclusion is clear and unambiguous: There's no link between vaccines and autism.”

Is Aluminum In Vaccines Harming My Child?

Aluminum-based ingredients are used in some vaccines to boost immune response. Large-scale studies have found no risks tied to the aluminum used in vaccines; however, the order directs government agencies to research safe and effective alternatives.

Should My Newborn Still Get The Hepatitis B Vaccine?

The CDC recommends that all infants receive the vaccine within 24 hours of birth, because Hep B can be carried without awareness and can lead to fatal liver disease later in life. It’s a universal safety net.

Are School Vaccine Requirements Changing?

The New Jersey Department of Health is not adopting the CDC's proposed new schedule and continues to follow the American Academy of Pediatrics' recommendations. Therefore, there is no change to the current list of vaccines required for school entry in New Jersey. 

Should I Continue The Series If My Child Has Already Started?

Dr. Clouser says that while it’s generally best to complete any vaccine series you started, you should discuss what’s best for your child with your pediatrician.

Who Should I Talk To If I Have Questions About Childhood Vaccines?

Many parents may find the changes concerning or confusing, which is understandable. For additional information and answers to common questions concerning childhood vaccines, we encourage you to visit our Children’s Vaccine page. You can also make an appointment with your pediatrician to discuss your child’s specific health needs.

Next Steps & Resources

• Meet our expert: Katharine Clouser, M.D.
• Make an appointment online with a pediatrician near you, or call 800-822-8905.
• Learn more about children’s health at Hackensack Meridian Health.