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CDC Panel Shifts stance on Hepatitis B Vaccine for Newborns
Washington D.C. – In a significant development for preventative healthcare, the Centers for Disease Control and prevention’s (CDC) vaccine advisory committee voted 8-3 on Friday, December 5, 2025, to remove the universal recommendation for the Hepatitis B vaccine to be administered at birth.This decision marks a potential turning point in newborn vaccination protocols across the United States.
The Vote and Its Implications
The committee’s decision follows extensive review of current data and evolving understanding of Hepatitis B transmission risks.While the vaccine remains a crucial component of the overall immunization schedule, the shift suggests a move towards more targeted vaccination strategies. The change does not eliminate the Hepatitis B vaccine; rather, it alters *when* it is routinely given.
Previously, all newborns were automatically scheduled to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth. The revised recommendation proposes identifying infants at higher risk of infection – those born to mothers who are Hepatitis B positive – and prioritizing vaccination for this group. This approach aims to maximize the vaccine’s impact while potentially reducing needless vaccinations for low-risk infants.
Understanding Hepatitis B and Vaccination
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease. It is typically spread through contact with infected blood, semen, or other body fluids. chronic Hepatitis B infection can lead to serious health problems, including liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure.
The Hepatitis B vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection and its complications. According to the World Health Organization, the vaccine prevents approximately 95% of Hepatitis B infections. WHO hepatitis B fact Sheet
| Vaccination Schedule | Previous Recommendation | Proposed Change |
|---|---|---|
| Newborns (0-24 hours) | Universal vaccination | Targeted vaccination based on maternal Hepatitis B status |
| Infants at High risk | Vaccination within 24 hours | Continued vaccination within 24 hours |
| General Infant Schedule | Subsequent doses at 1- |
