Breaking News: US vaccine committee removes recommendation for hepatitis B shot in newborns

NEW YORK, Dec 5 (Reuters) - The advisory group to U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. voted Friday to remove the longstanding guidance that all newborns in the United States should receive the hepatitis B vaccine. This marks one of the most significant adjustments to vaccine policy under Kennedy's tenure.

Responses to the Decision

Noel Brewer, former ACIP member and public health professor at UNC, expressed concern: "The committee is limiting parental choice and potentially putting children at greater risk. Removing universal hepatitis B vaccination may increase the chances of lifelong infection and cancer."

Dr. Cody Meissner, committee member and pediatric professor at Dartmouth, stated: "The principle of 'do no harm' guides us. Changing this recommendation is harmful. I voted against it."

Joseph Hibbeln, committee member and former NIH nutrition neuroscience chief, criticized the lack of data: "There has been no scientific evidence presented regarding vaccination before or after two months of age. Proceeding without this information is unacceptable."

Dr. William Schaffner, infectious disease expert at Vanderbilt University and former ACIP member, said: "This vote is a step backward to pre-1991 practices and will create confusion. Leading professional organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, still recommend birth vaccination. I have never seen a vote that knowingly increases risk for children rather than reducing it."

Dr. Flor Munoz, infectious diseases specialist at Texas Childrens Hospital, emphasized: "Parents and physicians already engage in shared decision-making regarding vaccines. This change is unnecessary, as all vaccines on the schedule are recommended, not mandated."

Author: Caleb Jennings