In a time when childhood vaccine recommendations are evolving, one thing is clear: helping kids be the healthiest they can be is the highest priority for parents, caregivers, and our communities. In January of 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its immunization schedule to reduce the number of vaccines recommended for all children from 18 to 11. Meanwhile, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), supported by several other professional organizations, continue to endorse immunization against 18 diseases. Given the conflicting vaccination schedules, what should parents consider when making choices about vaccinating their children?
“The most important thing for parents to know is that our approach to childhood vaccination encourages shared decision making,” says Sheena Whittaker, MD, a pediatrician and chief medical officer, Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital. “Healthcare practitioners offer experience and knowledge about vaccinations, parents bring their questions, and we talk about the pros and cons together. We will never force a vaccine on anyone.”
Dr. Whittaker says that while the CDC recommendations have changed, the medical evidence behind which vaccines to take and when hasn’t. In Maine, all of the vaccines recommended by the AAP and AAFP continue to be covered by insurance plans with no out of pocket costs, including the vaccines required by Maine law to attend school.
Pediatricians and family practitioners are well versed in every childhood vaccine, including the role that each plays in keeping children healthy and protecting against health complications.
“I always say that each vaccine has a story,” says Dr. Whittaker. “We vaccinate against chickenpox because it causes discomfort and disrupts school and work. Other diseases, like meningitis, can be deadly, and since it progresses so quickly, it can be very difficult to treat. In some cases, timing really matters—pertussis (whooping cough) is very dangerous for infants, so it’s important to stay on track with the first recommended dose.”
As vaccine-preventable diseases like measles and whooping cough make a resurgence, Dr. Whittaker says it’s more important than ever for parents to understand the benefits and risks of their approach to vaccination, and how immunization helps keep our entire community healthy.
“Children tolerate vaccines really well,” she says. “Other than arm soreness, there are few other symptoms. When children get vaccinated, they are not only protecting themselves, they’re safeguarding children and adults with compromised immune systems who cannot get vaccinated, do not respond to vaccines, or don’t have the immune system to fight off disease.”
When it comes to your child’s health, no question is too small. If you have questions or concerns about childhood vaccination, start with a trusted source—your pediatrician or family physician.