NEW YORK – On Monday, President Donald Trump signed an executive order that changes the way childhood vaccines are recommended. This order reflects his long-standing belief that childhood vaccinations should be spread out over multiple visits to the doctor.
The executive order specifically suggests that the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine should be given as three separate shots instead of one combined vaccine. It also instructs the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to enhance vaccine research, according to a White House fact sheet reported by The Daily Caller. However, it’s important to note that separate MMR vaccines are not currently available in the United States.
While discussing the executive order at the Oval Office, Trump mentioned that he believes one-year-olds should receive their vaccinations in five separate visits. However, it was unclear whether he was referring to all the vaccines given at that age or just specific ones.
Public health experts have expressed concern that spreading out vaccinations as Trump suggests could increase the risk of children contracting diseases that are preventable through vaccines. Vaccination schedules are based on extensive research, ensuring that safety and effectiveness are prioritized.
Although the executive order seeks to change vaccine recommendations, it’s essential to know that states, not the federal government, have the authority to enforce vaccination requirements for schoolchildren. The order will encourage states with existing school vaccination mandates to consider updating their laws in line with these new recommendations.
Last December, Trump had already instructed HHS to look into how other countries handle vaccine recommendations and to consider revising U.S. guidelines. The department attempted to reduce the number of vaccines recommended for children, but this move was blocked by a court ruling.
In the lead-up to this announcement, Trump’s administration had shifted its focus away from vaccine policy discussions, opting instead for less controversial topics like promoting healthy eating and reducing drug prices, especially with the upcoming elections in November. Polls indicate that many Americans still support mandatory vaccinations for schoolchildren, although support varies among political affiliations.
Trump has previously connected vaccines to autism and has increased pressure on Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to investigate the causes of autism. Kennedy has committed to this research, and Trump has actively sought updates on the progress.
“How are you doing on the autism research?” Trump asked during a Cabinet meeting.
Kennedy responded, “We will have an answer for you.”
Despite numerous studies and a strong scientific consensus that indicates no connection between childhood vaccines and autism, Kennedy reiterated his belief that other environmental factors may contribute to the rising rates of autism diagnoses. He assured that his department would present research findings as soon as they are available.
This new executive order arrives as schools across the nation are starting their academic years, while the United States faces a measles outbreak that could jeopardize its measles elimination status.
