Top 5 Takeaways
- New and Updated Vaccine Recommendations: The 2024 immunization schedule includes key changes, notably for influenza, pneumococcal vaccines, RSV monoclonal antibody (RSV-mAb), respiratory syncytial virus vaccines (RSV), COVID-19 vaccines, inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV), Mpox vaccine (Mpox), and meningococcal serogroups A, B, C, W, Y vaccine (MenACWY-TT/MenB-FHbp).
- Deletions from the Schedule: Diphtheria and tetanus toxoid adsorbed vaccine (DT), 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13), bivalent COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, and MenACWY-D (Menactra) were removed as they are no longer recommended or distributed in the U.S.
- Revisions for Clarity: Clarifications were made in the recommendations for DTaP, Hib, HPV, MMR, MenB, and Tdap. Table 3’s definitions for legend colors were revised for better clarity and harmonization with the adult immunization schedule.
- New Addendum Section: A novel addendum section lists new or updated ACIP recommendations that occur before the next annual update, ensuring the schedule remains current throughout the year.
- Online Accessibility and Endorsements: The 2024 schedule is available online and endorsed by various health organizations, including the CDC, AAP, AAFP, ACOG, ACNM, AAPA, and NAPNAP.
Original Article Author and Citation
Corresponding Author
A. Patricia Wodi, MD, awodi@cdc.gov
Suggested Citation
Wodi AP, Murthy N, McNally V, Daley MF, Cineas S. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices Recommended Immunization Schedule for Children and Adolescents Aged 18 Years or Younger — United States, 2024. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2024;73:6–10. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7301a2.
Summary
The 2024 immunization schedule for children and adolescents in the U.S. reflects several significant changes from the previous year. It consolidates current ACIP recommendations and aids health care providers in effective implementation. The schedule now includes a new addendum for updates occurring before the next annual schedule release.
Methods
ACIP develops vaccine and immunizing agent recommendations after thorough reviews of related data, including disease epidemiology, vaccine efficacy and safety, and economic analyses. Changes in vaccine recommendations between annual updates are now summarized in the addendum section.
Discussion
The updates, including deletions and clarifications, aim to optimize the immunization schedule, ensuring it reflects the latest evidence and recommendations. The changes emphasize the dynamic nature of vaccine science and public health responsiveness.
Conclusion
The 2024 immunization schedule for children and adolescents incorporates important updates, deletions, and clarifications. It is a vital resource for healthcare providers, designed to guide optimal immunization practices and protect public health.
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