CDC Vaccine Panel Scraps Guidance for Universal Hepatitis B Shots at Birth
NegativeScience
- The CDC’s vaccine advisory panel has decided to eliminate the long-standing recommendation for universal hepatitis B vaccinations at birth, a measure credited with reducing infections by 99% in the United States. This decision marks a significant shift in public health policy regarding hepatitis B prevention.
- The removal of this guidance raises concerns among health professionals and advocates who fear it may lead to an increase in hepatitis B infections, particularly among newborns who are at high risk. The panel's decision reflects ongoing debates about vaccination strategies and public health priorities.
- This development highlights the complexities surrounding vaccine recommendations, as confusion within the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices during the voting process indicates potential discord among experts. Additionally, discussions about vaccine safety, including the role of adjuvants, continue to provoke scrutiny and debate, underscoring the challenges faced by health authorities in maintaining public trust.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System
