Policy Overhaul: Hepatitis B Vaccine Birth Dose Scrapped

A U.S. advisory committee has revoked the universal recommendation for a hepatitis B birth dose, now suggesting vaccination for infants only if their mothers test positive for the virus. This marks a controversial win for health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and sparks concern among public health experts.

In a significant policy shift, a U.S. advisory committee has removed the longstanding recommendation that mandated hepatitis B vaccinations for all newborns, igniting debate among public health experts. The decision now limits the vaccine to infants whose mothers test positive for the virus.

The revision challenges a universal policy established in 1991 that has protected children from hepatitis B infections, which can lead to severe liver diseases. Parents of infants whose mothers test negative will now decide on vaccination schedules alongside healthcare providers, potentially deferring the first dose until two months of age.

This change, endorsed by health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., follows his overhaul of the advising panel. Critics argue the move risks reversing public health successes and misaligns U.S. policies with global standards set by the World Health Organization.

(With inputs from agencies.)