Children & Vaccines

Children’s Vaccines are Safe, Effective, and Keep Kids Healthy. Nothing has Changed at Urban Health Plan.

You may have heard news about recommended changes to the childhood vaccine schedule. We want our community to know that nothing has changed in the care that Urban Health Plan provides your child. We continue to follow the trusted vaccine schedule from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), and the New York City Department of Health (NYCDOH).

The American Academy of Pediatrics AP stated there is no new scientific evidence to justify changes to childhood immunization guidance. They continue to recommend vaccination against all 18 diseases in their 2026 immunization schedule, guidance based on decades of research and real-world tracking of children’s health.

Here’s what stays the same for your family:

New York State school vaccine requirements have not changed, and we do not expect them to
Childhood vaccines remain covered by both Medicaid and private insurance
At Urban Health Plan, your child’s recommended care and vaccine schedule stays the same.

We understand this news can feel confusing or worrying. Vaccines help keep children, families, and communities healthy, and your child’s health is very important to us. We are here to support you and answer any questions, every step of the way.

Vaccine Myths vs. Facts

Myth 1: The new vaccine recommendations mean care at Urban Health Plan has changed.

Fact: Nothing has changed in the care we give your child. Urban Health Plan continues to follow the schedule set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the New York State Department of Health, and the New York City Department of Health.

Myth 2: Vaccines can overwhelm a child's immune system

Fact: Children’s immune systems handle thousands of germs every day. The antigens in the full recommended vaccine schedule are a tiny fraction of what a child’s immune system already manages safely.

Myth 3: Spacing out or delaying vaccines is safer

Fact: Delaying vaccines leaves children unprotected for longer during the ages when they are most vulnerable to serious, preventable disease. The recommended schedule is timed to protect kids when they need it most.

Myth 4: Vaccines are linked to autism

Fact: This claim has been extensively studied for over two decades. Major research institutions worldwide, along with the American Academy of Pediatrics, have found no link between vaccines and autism.

Myth 5: Natural immunity is better than vaccine immunity

Fact: Getting sick naturally carries real risks, including hospitalization and serious complications, that vaccines help children avoid while still building strong protection.

Myth 6: Diseases are rare now, so vaccines aren't necessary

Fact: Diseases like measles and whooping cough are rare today because of vaccination. When immunization rates drop, these diseases can and do come back.

Links to Trusted Sources

This section links directly to the three official sources UHP’s schedule is based on.

American Academy of Pediatrics — official recommended childhood immunization schedule
NYS Department of Health
NYC Department of Health

What To Do Next

Keep upcoming well-child and vaccine appointments as scheduled
Bring any questions to your child’s provider; we’re glad to talk through them
Ask your care team if you’re unsure what’s due at your child’s age
If anything changes with coverage or requirements, UHP will let you know

Your child's health is our priority

Have questions about your child’s vaccines? Our providers and associates are here to help, every step of the way.