Federal Advisory Committee Revisits Newborn Hepatitis B Vaccine Guidelines

Fri Dec 05 2025 03:10:38 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A significant shift might be underway regarding the hepatitis B vaccination for newborns as U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s committee prepares to vote on changing longstanding recommendations.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is set to revisit its recommendation for newborns to receive the hepatitis B vaccine at birth. Current guidelines advise that all babies receive the vaccine within 24 hours of birth, but upcoming discussions may alter this advice. The American Academy of Pediatrics continues to advocate for the birth dose to prevent chronic infections and associated liver conditions.

NEW YORK (AP) — A federal vaccine advisory committee this week is expected to discuss new recommendations regarding the hepatitis B vaccine for newborns, which has been a significant preventative measure against a disease that can lead to severe health issues, including liver cancer.

The vaccine's current guidelines suggest administering it within the first day of life, but U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s committee may introduce changes that contradict decades of established public health advice.

Dr. Sean O’Leary of the American Academy of Pediatrics insists on maintaining the recommendation for the birth dose, asserting that it is crucial for saving lives.

Liver Disease in Newborns

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection, particularly concerning for infants and children, with potential complications such as liver failure and chronic infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 2.4 million people in the U.S. currently live with hepatitis B, with many not even aware of their condition. Notably, about 90% of infants who contract the virus will have chronic infections.

A History of Vaccination Guidelines

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has historically guided vaccine recommendations in the U.S. In 1991, it first recommended hepatitis B vaccinations at birth. Despite modifications over the years, vaccinations have proven effective, reducing the number of cases among children significantly.

Potential Changes and Concerns

The recent personnel changes in the committee have raised doubts, with some members questioning the necessity of early vaccination and expressing concerns about informed consent. A recent report estimated that delaying the vaccine could lead to significant outbreaks of the virus among children.

Numerous health organizations, including government officials from various states, have voiced their opposition to any changes in vaccination guidelines, advocating for continued education and information dissemination to parents regarding the importance of early hepatitis B vaccination.

U.S. Senator Patty Murray criticized potential changes, indicating it could lead to preventable deaths among newborns. As the committee prepares to meet, the impacts of any changes in vaccination policy remain uncertain but fraught with implications for public health.