Childhood Vaccine Schedule
Vaccines teach our immune systems how to fight dangerous diseases. A vaccine schedule (or immunization schedule) shows the most effective times to get each vaccine, based on the latest research. OHSU follows the childhood vaccine schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which has guided children’s health since 1930.
Advice for families on the new CDC immunization schedule
Many of the country’s top health experts, including AAP, are concerned about the new vaccine schedule from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We know this is confusing for families who just want the best care for their kids.
OHSU pediatricians want the same thing. Our pediatricians believe it’s best to follow the AAP vaccine schedule. The schedule is based on decades of research and testing. While the CDC has a long history of important, credible work in many areas, the AAP represents more than 60,000 pediatricians across the United States. These are the same providers that families like yours trust to nurture and protect children’s health.
Measles and the MMR vaccine
Following the AAP vaccine schedule, OHSU strongly recommends your child get two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The MMR vaccine has been used since the 1960s, and decades of data prove its safety.
After two doses, the vaccine is 97% effective in protecting your child from these diseases and their side effects. While measles often causes rash and fever, it can also cause serious or deadly problems. These can include swelling of the lungs or brain and weakening of the immune system for up to 12 months.
Oregon measles outbreak
Cases of measles are rising in Oregon and across the nation because fewer children are vaccinated. Because measles spreads quickly through the air, any community that falls below a 95% vaccinated rate is at risk of an outbreak. Outbreaks endanger people who can’t get vaccinated or who have a weakened immune system. This includes infants and anyone who’s pregnant or in treatment for cancer.
If your child has the following symptoms, call your provider and do NOT come to the hospital. Measles spreads through the air and can’t be treated once symptoms begin. Your child should heal at home for at least four days away from unvaccinated people.
- Fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes and sore throat
- Blotchy rash that starts on the face or hair line and spreads everywhere
Get updates on the spread of measles from the Oregon Health Authority.
Frequently asked questions
Which vaccines does the CDC no longer recommend? Why is the AAP immunization schedule different from the CDC schedule?
The CDC changed their recommendation for the COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, influenza (flu), meningococcal, rotavirus and RSV vaccines. They now only recommend these for children at high risk of serious illness.
However, the American Academy of Pediatrics has not changed its recommendation for these vaccines because there was no evidence-based reason to do so.
Will insurers continue to cover pediatric vaccines?
Yes. The Department of Health and Human Services says vaccines will continue to be fully covered by Affordable Care Act insurance plans and federal insurance programs, including Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, and the Vaccines for Children program. Families will not have to pay for vaccines.
What age do kids get the measles vaccine?
Following the AAP immunization schedule, kids get their first vaccine dose for measles at 12 months old. Kids should get a second dose anywhere between four and six years old. After two doses, the MMR vaccine is 97% effective.
Who should I talk to if I have questions?
Your child’s pediatrician is the best resource for health information. If you have questions about vaccines, our providers can help you make an informed decision for your child’s health.