Merck Defends Child Vaccine Schedule Amid Policy Shift

Merck emphasized that any modifications to the U.S. child and adolescent immunization schedule must be based on thorough data and the advice of vaccine experts. This stance comes after federal health officials recently shifted vaccines for rotavirus, influenza, meningococcal disease, and hepatitis A into a "shared clinical decision-making" category, advising parents to consult healthcare providers. Public health experts fear this change could lead to increased preventable hospitalizations and deaths due to lower vaccination uptake.

Company representatives stated that clear, evidence-based recommendations are crucial for informed decisions and ensuring children receive reliable protection. They highlighted the serious consequences of declining vaccination rates, especially with recent outbreaks. Merck affirmed its commitment to an immunization framework grounded in rigorous science and ongoing safety monitoring, vowing to collaborate with public health partners on policies safeguarding children and adolescents.

Concerns about potential financial repercussions have emerged, with analysts estimating a possible $2 billion annual revenue impact for Merck due to its rotavirus vaccine RotaTeq and Gardasil. The updated schedule also now recommends a single dose of the HPV vaccine for U.S. children, differing from the prior two-dose series for most adolescents. The company stressed that international comparisons of vaccination schedules need to consider specific contexts, such as disease prevalence and population needs.