(WWJ) What do proposed changes from the Trump administration mean for childhood vaccines?
The changes include separating the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine into three single-disease shots that are given during separate doctor visits, along with decreasing the number of immunizations to provide protection from 18 diseases to 11.
Speaking live on WWJ Newsradio 950 Beverly Hills Pediatrics Dr. Dave Obudsinski said that spacing out vaccines is not a new idea.
Some pedestrians already allow this, but Obudsinski said it can cause complications.
"Unfortunately, it just makes it longer and more complicated for kids to get their vaccines, and it's also a risk if they don't get them on time," Obudsinski said, "as far as getting their measles, mumps and rubella vaccines early enough to precent the outbreaks that have happened."
He adds that many pediatric offices, including his own, will continue to follow recommendations made by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
"It's been time-tested and very safe and effective for kids," Obudsinski said. "And also...the times for different vaccines were chosen because of the risk of disease at certain ages for kids, and when to protect them best."
Obudsinski said he hasn't seen any bad outcomes from vaccines in his nearly 40 years as a practicing doctor.
"Parents will tell me, you know, they've seen it online and they've seen these reported cases," Obudsinski said. "...And there are a subgroup of children who probably are maybe at risk and there's something genetic. So, if it's been in the family that's something they definitely should tell their pediatrician about."
He said he encourages all parents with questions or concerns to reach out their pediatrician.
What does the American Academy of Pediatrics say?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) announced that despite proposed changes to federal childhood vaccine recommendations, AAP will continue to share its own evidence-based vaccination schedule. The group stated: "
AAP’s childhood immunization schedule is based on decades of research, thousands of studies, continuous safety monitoring, and the expertise of physicians and scientists whose sole focus is children’s health. It is designed to protect kids from diseases when their immune system responds best. Your pediatrician is here to help you make the best decisions for your child’s health. Talk with them if you have any questions about childhood vaccines."
Learn more about AAP’s vaccine schedule at this link.
What about the Michigan health department?
While the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has not issued a new release following the signing of Trump's executive order, the department maintains a standing advisory instructing healthcare providers and families across Michigan to follow the evidence-based schedule established by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), rather than executive changes to federal guidance.
As for schools, executive orders issued at the federal level do not automatically alter state laws governing school entry requirements, and no changes for Michigan schools have been announced.
If you're worried about insurance coverage, there is some good news. Under the Affordable Care Act and state Medicaid rules, MDHHS said said that standard childhood vaccines recommended by medical associations remain covered with $0 out-of-pocket costs for Michigan children.
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