U.S. Vaccine Advisers Debate Future of Immunization Schedule

U.S. vaccine advisers are resuming discussions on immunization recommendations, particularly about hepatitis B and COVID-19 vaccines. Deliberations include deciding if hepatitis B shots should be delayed for newborns, revising COVID-19 guidance, and concerns over combined vaccine risks. Debate continues under new leadership reshaping vaccine policies in the U.S.

On the second day of a pivotal meeting, U.S. vaccine advisers will further debate updates to the country's immunization schedule, focusing on hepatitis B and COVID-19 vaccines. The discussions follow a contentious first day that exposed internal disagreements within the advisory group.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) will revisit the issue of whether newborns should receive their first hepatitis B vaccine dose at birth or one month later. A decision on this matter was initially postponed due to a "slight discrepancy" in voting language.

Additionally, the ACIP will decide on changes to COVID-19 vaccine policies amid broader shifts instigated by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has been critical of vaccines despite scientific consensus on their safety and effectiveness. The meeting highlights ongoing tensions in U.S. vaccine strategy.

(With inputs from agencies.)