President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday, August 10th, 2026, introducing the Gold Standard Childhood Vaccine Recommendations, which reduce the recommended childhood vaccines from 18, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to 11 diseases. The order also separates the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine and ends recommendations for all minors to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

The administration stated that the new recommendations align with those of other developed nations and reflect common sense. A memo accompanying the order advises that vaccines be administered in smaller amounts over a series of doctor visits rather than all at once. It also encourages individualized decisions for higher-risk children through shared clinical decision-making.

Trump emphasized parental authority in vaccination choices, stating, "Parents can still choose to give their children all of the vaccinations if they wish, it's up to the parents — we're making recommendations that are strong – but it's up to the parents if they wish and they will be covered by insurance."

Additionally, the executive order directs the Attorney General to pursue legal challenges against states that violate children's rights to religious or medical vaccination exemptions.

Trump expressed optimism about the new approach, saying, "I think you're going to see some amazing results [by] breaking it up," referring to the staggered vaccine schedule.

This move is part of a broader effort to shift medical power to parents and modify existing vaccination mandates in the United States.

Sources