The New York State Department of Health and the New York City Department of Health announced their official endorsement of the 2026 childhood and adolescent immunization schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). This evidence-based schedule recommends routine immunization for protection against 18 preventable diseases including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rotavirus, influenza and meningococcal disease. The Departments of Health encourage all medical providers and families to use the AAP schedule to protect their patients and children.
“Families all across New York State can rest assured that our immunization policies will continue to be aligned with science and evidence-based research that will provide our children and communities with the best protection against diseases that are entirely preventable,” State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “The Department continues to recommend vaccination in alignment with the American Academy of Pediatrics and remains committed to providing clear, science-based guidance and ensuring access to childhood vaccines for all families.”
NYC Health Department Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Toni Eyssallenne said, “At a time of so much uncertainty and confusion, it is essential that New York families receive accurate and evidence-based information when making life saving decisions. As a pediatrician, I have seen first-hand how a lack of vaccines can have detrimental consequences to an entire community. Today, alongside our state partners, the NYC Health Department is affirming our recommendations for all New Yorkers and endorsing the 2026 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendations for life saving vaccines.”…