Overview
- The CDC updated its immunization schedule to reflect ACIP’s recommendation that vaccination timing for infants of HBV-negative mothers be decided by parents and clinicians.
- A birth dose within 12 hours remains recommended for infants of mothers who are hepatitis B positive or whose status is unknown, and the CDC suggests starting the series at 2 months if the birth dose is declined.
- ACIP voted 8–3 earlier in December to end the universal birth-dose recommendation, a decision widely discussed in light of the committee’s recent repopulation under HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
- Major medical organizations including the AAP, AMA and ACP criticized the shift and continue to urge a hepatitis B shot within 24 hours of birth, with pediatricians reporting increased declines since the vote.
- Illinois broke with the federal guidance and reaffirmed universal newborn vaccination, while Marin County leaders launched local resources and warned the policy change could undermine confidence even as coverage through insurers and Vaccines for Children remains in place.