SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Illinois will continue to recommend a standard set of childhood vaccinations, even as federal guidelines have shifted, the Illinois Department of Public Health announced Thursday. The state’s decision centers on maintaining a consistent, science-backed immunization schedule for children and adolescents.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) childhood schedule remains unchanged from what IDPH has previously recommended, as the established science around vaccines has not changed.
“Amid ongoing federal changes to vaccine guidance that are not backed by strong scientific evidence, the endorsement aims to provide clarity and consistency to Illinois residents and health care providers,” IDPH wrote.
Illinois Prioritizes Science-Based Vaccine Schedule
The state’s decision to align with the AAP’s 2026 recommendations underscores a commitment to protecting public health through proven immunization practices.
The decision was informed by the Illinois Immunization Advisory Committee’s recommendations. The IDPH stated that the vaccines the AAP’s guidelines continue to include are supported by robust scientific evidence and that the changes in the federal childhood immunization guidance were made with the absence of scientific data warranting such a change.
“The IAC strongly endorsed the 2026 AAP Child and Adolescent vaccine schedule today based on diverse viewpoints of committee members and a process that considered the impact to Illinois overall,” said Dr. Marielle Fricchione, Chair of the IL-IAC. “This included vaccine confidence, school safety, provider practice dynamics and patient relationships, vaccine equity and access as well as impact of increased vaccine-preventable diseases on the hospital system.”
“Thanks to the thorough review by the IL-IAC, IDPH is confident the 2026 AAP immunization schedule reflects the best available evidence,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “Today’s endorsement ensures our caregivers and healthcare providers have the consistency and clarity to keep our children healthy and safe.”
Why the Discrepancy?
The IDPH’s move comes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recently updated its childhood immunization schedule, removing some vaccines previously recommended. Illinois officials emphasize that these federal changes weren’t driven by new scientific findings, but rather a lack of data supporting continued inclusion.
What vaccines are still recommended by the AAP schedule? The AAP guidelines continue to support immunization against several diseases that the CDC’s updated guidelines no longer include, ensuring comprehensive protection for Illinois children.
The IDPH stated that it will continue to review, in consultation with the IL-IAC, emerging evidence, national clinical guidance, and Illinois specific data to ensure Illinois’ immunization recommendations remain grounded in science and focused on protecting the public’s health.
