New Vaccine Schedule Released By American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists

The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) has introduced its first formal maternal immunization schedule, designed to provide clear, evidence-based guidance for vaccines during pregnancy. The move follows confusion caused by conflicting public health statements, including a 2024 tweet from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who claimed the COVID-19 vaccine was no longer recommended for pregnant women. Despite this, both the CDC and HHS currently advise pregnant individuals to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, along with other immunizations like the flu shot. The new ACOG 2026 Maternal Immunization Schedule prioritizes vaccines offering the most protection during pregnancy and early infancy. Pregnant patients are advised to receive the flu vaccine at any time, ideally in the fall, and the COVID-19 vaccine as early in pregnancy as possible. The Tdap vaccine (for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) should be administered between 27 and 36 weeks, while the RSV vaccine is recommended between 32 and 36 weeks, from September to January in most U.S. regions. Additional vaccines, such as hepatitis A and B, meningococcal, and pneumococcal shots, are suggested based on individual risk factors. Some vaccines, including those for chickenpox, measles/mumps/rubella (MMR), and human papillomavirus (HPV), are recommended before pregnancy or postpartum. ACOG emphasizes that immunizations are critical for prepregnancy, prenatal, and postpartum care, serving as a tool for doctors and midwives to discuss vaccination benefits with patients. The schedule is supported by 13 medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians, aiming to counter misinformation and rebuild public trust. ACOG president Dr. Camille Clare noted that conflicting national recommendations and vaccine misinformation have created confusion for both patients and healthcare professionals. The goal is to provide reliable, trusted information to ensure families receive necessary protective care. ACOG’s withdrawal earlier this year from a CDC vaccine advisory committee preceded this guidance. The new schedule is available online, with a patient-friendly version designed for easy reference. Experts stress the importance of evidence-based information to address vaccine hesitancy and ensure maternal and infant health.