At the 47th National Conference on Pediatric Health Care, hosted by the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP), leaders from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and NAPNAP met to reaffirm their shared commitment to advancing pediatric health care. Central to this commitment is ensuring the timely immunization of children in the United States in accordance with the 2026 AAP Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule. Both organizations recognize that maintaining high vaccination coverage is critical to protecting individual children and safeguarding community health. Through continued collaboration, AAP and NAPNAP remain dedicated to supporting pediatric nurse practitioners, pediatricians and other pediatric clinicians with evidence-based guidance and resources that promote confidence in routine childhood immunization.
Recent declines in childhood immunization rates in the United States, along with increases in vaccine-preventable diseases, including measles and pertussis, closely correlate with rising vaccine hesitancy and the growing use of non-medical exemptions nationwide. A February 2026 Annenberg poll found that respondents reported greater trust in major health and science associations than in government health care agencies. To protect children’s short- and long-term health and well-being, pediatric health experts must continue working together to provide clear, consistent guidance for parents who may encounter misinformation and disinformation about the safety and effectiveness of immunizations and pediatric health care more broadly.
NAPNAP was one of 12 leading medical and health care organizations to formally endorse the AAP immunization schedule, and one of more than 230 to voice support for its recommendations. This broad coalition reflects strong consensus across the medical and public health communities regarding the safety, effectiveness and critical importance of routine childhood immunization. NAPNAP remains committed to partnering with national organizations, policymakers and pediatric experts to ensure that all children have access to timely, evidence-based preventive care.
NAPNAP and AAP members have dedicated their careers to ensuring children lead safe, healthy and happy lives. We will continue to advocate for evidence-based policies to protect children and families.
Posted March 26, 2026
