AAP Vaccination Schedule: New Guidelines & Updates | Chicago Tribune

Pediatricians Issue New Vaccine Schedule Amid CDC Proposal shifts

Amid growing confusion surrounding federal vaccine guidance,the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) today released an alternative childhood immunization schedule,backed by a coalition of leading medical organizations.

The Itasca-based AAP’s recommendations represent a departure from recent changes made by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), largely reverting to previously established protocols. Notably,the AAP continues to advocate for routine influenza vaccinations,hepatitis B vaccinations for all infants,and COVID-19 vaccines for children aged 6 to 23 months – recommendations absent from the new federal schedule,which largely leaves vaccination decisions to individual parents and physicians.

“The recommendations from the CDC, I think, are confusing for parents and for pediatricians,” stated Dr. Adam Ratner, a pediatric infectious disease specialist and member of the Academy’s committee on infectious diseases. “These recommendations … are very different from what CDC recommended a year ago or two years ago or five years ago.It’s not that the science has changed. It’s that the people running CDC have changed.”

The full story from the Tribune’s Lisa Schencker is available [here](link to Tribune story – placeholder).

Chicago and National News Roundup – January 26, 2026

Here’s a look at other key developments across the region and the nation:

Colder Temperatures Expected Away From The lakefront

Colder temperatures expected away from the lakefront.

School Climate and Attendance Rates

chalmers STEAM Elementary School is demonstrating a promising approach to combating chronic absenteeism. While nearly half of its students were chronically absent during the 2021-22 school year, that number has fallen to approximately 17% last year. This success contrasts sharply with the district-wide rate of 40%, a notable increase from the 24% rate recorded in 2019. Experts emphasize the long-term consequences of chronic absenteeism on student learning.

Obama Presidential Center and Airbnb Concerns

As the opening of the Obama Presidential Center approaches, the foundation is actively promoting Airbnb as a lodging option for anticipated tourists. However, this partnership has drawn scrutiny due to Airbnb’s controversial impact on local rents and housing availability.

A Family’s Resilience Amid ICE Detention

The story of Marina Lopez highlights the profound impact of ICE detention on families. Lopez recounted the fear of potentially never being able to braid her daughter’s hair again during her family’s ordeal. The support of her church community proved instrumental in sustaining her family through this challenging period.

Great Lakes ice Fishing booms

Despite unpredictable shifts,ice conditions on the Great Lakes are shaping up favorably for ice fishing this winter. Anglers are flocking to locations like Lake Michigan’s Little Bay de Noc, where nearly 400 ice shacks were visible last weekend. This represents a welcome change for coastal communities that have experienced recent winters with limited ice cover.

Worker Injuries at Michigan City Data Center

Michael Grace, a heavy equipment operator, has been without income for five weeks after sustaining injuries at the project Maize data center in Michigan City.He is facing financial hardship as he navigates his recovery and uncertain employment prospects.

Chicago Bears Prepare for Offseason Decisions

Following a triumphant first season under coach Ben Johnson, the Chicago Bears face critical decisions regarding their roster and contract statuses. General Manager Ryan Poles and Johnson are preparing for a busy offseason as they look to build on their recent momentum.

Derrick Rose’s Legacy Honored

The Chicago Bulls retired the jersey of Derrick Rose on Tuesday, celebrating his enduring legacy with the team and the city. Rose was visibly moved during the ceremony, acknowledging the profound impact Chicago had on his life and career.

A Captivating Play at A Red Orchid Theater

The new production of “Birds of North America” at A Red Orchid Theatre is receiving critical acclaim. Tribune critic Chris Jones describes the play as a “gorgeous little 90-minute two-hander” that offers a welcome escape from the winter chill.