A panel of United States vaccine advisers has voted to eliminate a long-standing public health recommendation. On Friday, the group decided that not all newborns need the hepatitis B vaccination immediately after birth.
This ruling marks a decisive policy victory for Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. He has aggressively sought to overhaul the nation’s immunization framework.
However, the move has triggered immediate alarm among experts. Infectious disease specialists warn it could dismantle years of progress in eradicating the virus among children.
A Narrowed Mandate
The committee voted to replace the universal guideline established in 1991. Now, the immediate birth dose is reserved exclusively for specific infants. Only babies born to mothers who test positive for the virus will receive it automatically. This group represents less than 1% of the population.
For the vast majority of cases where mothers test negative, the protocol changes. The new guidance shifts the decision-making power to a consultation between parents and healthcare providers.
Furthermore, the committee recommended a timeline change. For these infants, they suggest administering the first dose no sooner than two months of age.
The “Kennedy Effect” on Public Health
The vote underscores the rapid transformation of U.S. health policy under Kennedy’s leadership. Since June, the Health Secretary has reshaped the advisory body. He replaced 17 independent experts with appointees who largely align with his views on vaccines.
This decision is part of a series of sweeping changes initiated by the new administration. Other moves include:
- Dropping broad recommendations for COVID-19 vaccinations.
- Cutting funding for mRNA technology.
- Issuing controversial advisories regarding Tylenol use during pregnancy.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is led by acting head Jim O’Neill. The agency is expected to adopt the committee’s vote as official federal guidance. This will directly influence insurance coverage policies and physician standards nationwide.
Medical Community Condemns the Move
The decision has drawn sharp rebukes from major medical organizations. Both the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics affirmed they would continue to support the birth dose.
Critics argue that the committee’s emphasis on “parental choice” ignores established science. Since the universal recommendation began in 1991, hepatitis B infection rates among U.S. children have dropped by 90%.
“This gives them an open door to continue to make changes to the immunization schedule based on opinion,” stated Dr. Flor Muñoz. She represents the Infectious Diseases Society of America.
Dissenting voices warn that the delay leaves infants vulnerable. Hepatitis B spreads through bodily fluids. Consequently, it can be transmitted by close contact with unknowing carriers, such as family members.
Political and Industry Fallout
The controversy has crossed party lines. Republican Senator Bill Cassidy, a liver specialist who previously supported Kennedy’s nomination, publicly criticized the vote.
“As a liver doctor who has treated patients with hepatitis B for decades, this change to the vaccine schedule is a mistake,” Cassidy said. He urged the CDC to maintain the current protective standards.
The shift also impacted the pharmaceutical sector. Shares of major vaccine manufacturers saw slight declines following the announcement. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization continues to recommend that all babies receive the vaccine as soon as possible after birth.
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