The Dose Which childhood vaccines do doctors recommend universally?
Jan 15, 2026
Dr. Caroline Quach, an infectious-diseases specialist and Chief Medical Officer of Health for Quebec, discusses the recent changes in the CDC's recommended childhood vaccines. She highlights concerns over potential vaccine hesitancy due to reduced immunizations in the U.S. and discusses the importance of maintaining universal standards in Canada. Topics include the implications of de-listing certain vaccines, the effectiveness of rotavirus vaccination, and the risk of disease resurgence. Quach also shares strategies for addressing parental concerns around vaccinations.
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CDC Shifted From Universal To Risk-Based Recommendations
- The CDC removed several vaccines from the universal list but they're still available based on risk or shared decision-making.
- Caroline Quach warns this shifts messages about importance and may increase confusion among parents.
Meningococcal Vaccine Prevents Transmission
- Meningococcal vaccination uniquely reduces nasopharyngeal carriage and suppresses transmission.
- Quach cautions stopping universal doses could let meningococcal disease re-emerge with severe outcomes.
Rotavirus Vaccine Cut ER Visits Dramatically
- Rotavirus vaccination dramatically reduced pediatric ER visits and hospital admissions for dehydration.
- Quach says dropping universal rotavirus shots would increase gastroenteritis burden on families and emergency care.