The Maryland Academy of Family Physicians (MDAFP) strongly supports the current childhood and adolescent immunization schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).
Childhood immunizations are among the most effective tools available to protect children, families, and communities from serious and preventable illnesses. The current immunization schedule reflects decades of scientific research, clinical experience, ongoing safety monitoring, and careful evaluation of the benefits and risks of vaccination. It is designed to provide children with protection at the ages when they are most vulnerable and when vaccines can provide the greatest benefit.
MDAFP does not support federal changes to the childhood immunization schedule that are inconsistent with the evidence-based recommendations of the AAP and AAFP. Decisions about childhood vaccination should be guided by the best available scientific evidence, rigorous evaluation of vaccine safety and effectiveness, and the expertise of physicians who care for children and families.
Family physicians across Maryland see firsthand the importance of vaccination in preventing disease and protecting the health of our patients and communities. Changes that create unnecessary uncertainty or confusion about established vaccine recommendations risk undermining public confidence and could leave children vulnerable to diseases that can cause serious illness, disability, hospitalization, or death.
MDAFP remains committed to evidence-based medicine and to supporting Maryland families in making informed health decisions in partnership with their physicians. We encourage parents and caregivers with questions about immunizations to speak with their family physician or pediatrician.
The Maryland Academy of Family Physicians stands with the AAP and AAFP in supporting a childhood immunization schedule grounded in the best available evidence and science and focused on a fundamental goal: protecting every child from preventable illness
Submitted by:
Amar Duggirala, DO, MPH, FAAFP
MDAFP Board Chair
