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.
Tuesday, April 7, 2026Vaccines
It's World Health Day — And Your Child's Vaccines Still Matter
The AAP stands firm: all 18 recommended childhood vaccines remain essential
The Teddy Editorial Desk · Grounded in AAP & CDC guidance
In Brief
The Briefing
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.
Questions
What Parents Are Asking
For the Clinic
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
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