Tuesday, April 7, 2026

It's World Health Day — And Your Child's Vaccines Still Matter

The AAP stands firm: all 18 recommended childhood vaccines remain essential

Today is World Health Day, and this year's theme — Together for health.

Stand with science — hits close to home for families.

Earlier this year, the CDC reduced its recommended childhood vaccines from 17 to 11.

The American Academy of Pediatrics disagreed and kept all its recommendations in place, backed by 12 major medical organizations.

The bottom line for parents: the AAP still recommends vaccines against 18 preventable diseases, and your pediatrician is the best person to guide your family's decisions.

Quick Updates

Awareness

What Is World Health Day?

April 7 marks the founding of the World Health Organization in 1948. This year's theme celebrates science's role in keeping families healthy around the globe.

Explainer

AAP vs. CDC: What Changed?

The CDC trimmed its childhood vaccine list in January. The AAP kept all 18 disease protections, including hepatitis A and B, flu, RSV, and rotavirus. Twelve major medical groups agree with the AAP.

By the Numbers

Vaccines Have Saved 154 Million Children

Over the past 50 years, global immunization has saved more than 154 million young lives and cut infant mortality by 40 percent, according to the WHO.

Save the Date

World Immunization Week Is Coming Up

Mark your calendar: April 24 to 30 is World Immunization Week. It's a great time to check that your child's shots are up to date.

What Matters by Age

What Parents Are Asking

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Clinic Takeaway

With two competing vaccine schedules in circulation, expect more parent questions this spring. Use World Health Day as an opportunity to share your practice's commitment to the full AAP-recommended schedule. A brief explainer in your patient portal or waiting room — noting the AAP's backing by 12 major medical organizations — can help families feel informed and confident.

Source: AAP 2026 Immunization Schedule Policy Statement

Explore More

Guide

The 2026 Childhood Vaccine Guide

Topic

Vaccines Topic Hub

For Clinics

The Pediatric Education Engine