The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) led by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has significantly altered the nation's childhood immunization schedule. The number of universally recommended vaccines has been reduced from 17-18 to 11. Several vaccines, including those for rotavirus, influenza, COVID-19, meningococcal disease, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B, have been reclassified into a 'shared clinical decision-making' category. This means parents are now advised to consult with healthcare providers to decide on these vaccinations, rather than them being a blanket recommendation for all children. Furthermore, the updated schedule recommends a single dose of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine for children, a reduction from the previously advised two doses. This change has drawn scrutiny, particularly given reports that the FDA has indicated insufficient evidence to conclude a single dose provides the same protection as two. In response to these sweeping changes, pharmaceutical giant Merck urged that any modifications to the U.S. immunization schedule must be grounded in comprehensive data and expert guidance. The company projected a potential $2 billion impact on its annual revenue, specifically citing its rotavirus and HPV vaccines affected by the new guidelines. The Trump administration's rationale for these revisions includes aligning the U.S. schedule with those of other developed nations, enhancing transparency, strengthening informed consent, and working to restore public trust in health institutions, which reportedly declined between 2020 and 2024. However, public health specialists and medical organizations have voiced strong concerns, warning that these changes could lead to reduced vaccine uptake, increased preventable hospitalizations, and potentially severe public health consequences. Despite the reclassification, officials have stated that all previously recommended vaccines will remain available and covered by the Affordable Care Act and other federal insurance programs, ensuring access for families.