The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) announced it will align its immunization recommendations with professional medical associations rather than the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, following recent federal changes to the childhood immunization schedule.

Federal officials earlier this week revised CDC recommendations to reduce the number of routinely recommended childhood vaccines. Minnesota health leaders say the change did not follow established scientific review processes.

“This change at the federal level does not reflect the best available science,” said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham. “Medical association immunization schedules are evidence-based, reflect current clinical practice and are developed through established professional review processes.”

Under the new approach, MDH will follow immunization schedules from the American Academy of Pediatrics for children, the American Academy of Family Physicians for adults, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists for vaccines during pregnancy. Minnesota previously departed from CDC guidance for COVID-19 and hepatitis B vaccines.

Leaders from medical organizations across the state voiced support, emphasizing vaccines as safe, effective tools to prevent serious disease. Minnesota Medical Association President Dr. Lisa Mattson said the CDC changes risk adding “unnecessary confusion” for families.

MDH officials noted vaccines recommended by medical associations remain covered by private insurance and available through the Minnesota Vaccines for Children program. The department will continue recommending routine immunizations protecting against 17 infectious diseases.