CDC To Weigh Major Vaccine Change

The childhood vaccine schedule in the United States could soon see significant changes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s immunization advisory committee meets this week to consider revisions to long-standing practices. One of the most closely watched proposals involves altering the timing of the hepatitis B vaccine given to newborns.

The committee, appointed earlier this year by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., includes several members who have questioned elements of the current vaccine schedule. Their review includes whether to continue recommending the universal hepatitis B birth dose, which has been standard practice for decades.

However, many public health experts warn that delaying the first hepatitis B shot could have serious consequences. One study found that postponing the birth dose could lead to more than 1,400 preventable infections in children each year. Infants who contract hepatitis B at birth face nearly a 90% chance of developing chronic disease.

Like HIV, hepatitis B cannot be cured, although treatments are available to help manage long-term health effects.

The committee is expected to vote on its recommendations later this week.