Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease Statement on Federal Court Ruling Blocking Vaccine Policy Changes

March 17, 2026 (Washington, D.C.) — The Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease (PFID) released the following statement in response to a federal district court blocking changes to U.S. vaccine recommendations while litigation continues: 

"Today's ruling is an important victory for science and public health. We’re grateful that physicians and other clinicians, patient and consumer advocates, and public health experts continue to defend evidence-based vaccine policy during a period of unprecedented disruption.

"Over the past year, the integrity of the nation’s immunization system has been tested to a startling degree. The abrupt dismissal of all 17 experts on the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and their replacement days later with unvetted members – many without expertise in vaccine science – undermined the transparent, evidence-based process that made ACIP the global gold standard for vaccine recommendations. In January, the CDC further fueled confusion by dismantling the U.S. childhood vaccination schedule despite no new safety signals or scientific justification.

“We hope this ruling marks a turning point toward restoring stable, science-driven guidance from credible experts and institutions. That’s what Americans overwhelmingly want: Recent national polling shows more than 9 in 10 voters support continued access and options.

“The consequences of instability are already visible. Preventable measles cases have surged since January 2025, putting the U.S. at risk of losing its 25-year elimination status.

"The strength of U.S. vaccine policy has always rested on independence and integrity of its scientific process. Today’s ruling provides an opportunity to reaffirm that commitment and restore trust in the systems that protect America’s health.”