US panel votes to stop recommending universal hepatitis B vaccine for newborns

An advisory group appointed under former President Trump's health secretary voted on Friday to stop recommending the hepatitis B vaccine for all newborns in the United States. This marks the latest controversial decision from the panel under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his long-standing anti-vaccine views.

Previously, US health authorities advised that every newborn receive the first of three hepatitis B doses immediately after birth, mainly to protect babies from mothers who might unknowingly carry the virus or have falsely negative test results. This policy has nearly eliminated hepatitis B infections among children in the country. Hepatitis B is a liver virus that can be transmitted from mother to child during childbirth and carries a high risk of cirrhosis or liver cancer later in life.

After postponing the vote by a day, the panel ultimately endorsed a recommendation for "individual-based decision-making," encouraging parents to consult with healthcare providers if the mother tests negative for the disease. The guidance suggests weighing vaccine benefits, risks, and potential exposure to infection. Babies who do not receive the vaccine at birth are advised to wait at least two months before the first dose.

Under Kennedy, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) now includes members criticized for lacking scientific expertise or promoting vaccine skepticism. The vote concluded with eight in favor and three against. Officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), appointed during Trumps administration, are expected to formally adopt the new guidance later.

Since 1991, US policy has aligned with international practices, including China and Australia, and follows World Health Organization recommendations. Some ACIP members argued that the new approach brings the US schedule closer to countries like France and the UK.

Medical experts warn that this change could be risky in the US due to gaps in maternal screening and potential delays in vaccination, which may lower coverage rates. Susan J. Kressly, President of the American Academy of Pediatrics, criticized the decision, saying it could result in more hepatitis B infections in children.

The ACIPs vaccine guidance has broad impact, as federal recommendations influence insurance coverage for costly vaccines. On Friday, the committee is also beginning a review of the broader childhood vaccination schedule and vaccine formulations. However, its influence is declining amid criticism from the scientific community, with some Democratic-led states declaring they will not follow the new recommendations. Even some Republicans, including Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, voiced opposition, emphasizing that the original policy was not mandatory.

Before the vote, Dr. Cody Meissner, a dissenting member, warned that changing the guidance could cause harm, stressing the principle of "do no harm."

Author: Gavin Porter