CDC ends recommendation for all US newborns to receive hepatitis B vaccine

The CDC has ended its recommendation for universal hepatitis B vaccination of all US newborns, reversing a 30-year policy. This decision follows a recommendation from a vaccine advisory panel to only administer the birth dose to infants whose mothers test positive or have unknown status for hepatitis B. The CDC now advises parents of babies born to hepatitis B-negative mothers to consult with a healthcare provider about vaccination, suggesting a delay of at least two months if they choose to vaccinate. Officials cite restoring informed consent as the reason for the change. Experts warn this policy shift could lead to increased hepatitis B infections, as it may create barriers to access and decrease vaccination rates, despite a 90% decline in infections since widespread vaccination began in 1982.

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