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For the Community

In January 2026, federal officials suddenly stopped recommending several childhood vaccines. They did this after a brief review of some other countries' practices, with no supporting scientific evidence or review. Oregon Health Authority and the West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) do not support these changes, and we continue to endorse the vaccination recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Read more about the AAP recommendations and why they differ from those of other countries here.

Additionally, federal officials have made misleading claims about vaccines and autism. Decades of scientific research have proven that vaccines do not cause autism. Learn more about autism research, including known genetic and environmental risk factors, on the AAP and Autism Foundation websites.

Protect yourself and your family

Immunizations are the best way to protect you and members of your family and community against many diseases. Recommended immunizations begin at birth and continue throughout one's lifetime, with special emphasis on children under age 2.

Infant, child and adolescent immunization
Head shot of baby with blue towel draped over head

Children need a variety of vaccinations at multiple stages of their growth and development. Starting from the day they're born, all the way through high school, vaccines protect the youngest members of our communities from disease, disability and death. 

Immunization schedules for infants, children and adolescents through age 18, school immunization requirement, and getting immunization records.

School and childcare immunization
Young girl and boy sitting at school desk with paper and pencils

Shots are required by law for children in attendance at public and private schools, preschools, child care facilities, and Head Start programs in Oregon.

Immunization during pregnancy
Pregnant lady talking to a medical person

Newborns are especially vulnerable to certain diseases, and expectant mothers should receive certain vaccines to protect the newest members of their families.


Adult immunization (19 and older)
Two women sitting outdoors with beverage mugs

Adults need vaccines for a variety of reasons, including missing routine childhood vaccinations, being pregnant, attending higher education, traveling abroad or reaching an age that puts them at higher risk of certain diseases.

Travel vaccinations
Two women sitting outdoors with beverage mugs

Plan ahead! Depending on your destination, certain vaccinations may be either required or recommended, and it may take several months to receive the adequate number and type of vaccinations.