NEW YORK — A federal vaccine advisory committee, spearheaded by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is poised to discuss the future of the hepatitis B vaccination for newborns. This recommendation, traditionally administered within the first day of life, has been a key public health measure aimed at preventing liver infections and subsequent cancer.
Currently, U.S. health guidelines advocate for all newborns to receive the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth. However, the upcoming meeting raises concerns as the panel under Kennedy, known for his controversial views on vaccines, considers revising these guidelines.
The American Academy of Pediatrics continues to support immediate vaccination, with Dr. Sean O’Leary underscoring that it “saves lives.” Hepatitis B can lead to chronic health issues, including liver failure and cancer, especially if contracted at a young age.
About 90% of infants who contract the virus develop chronic infections, many remaining unaware of their status, which makes immediate vaccination vital. In the U.S., it’s estimated that around 2.4 million people are living with hepatitis B, with half unaware of their infection.
The Debate on Vaccination Timing
Historically, recommendations made by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices have been critical in shaping childhood vaccination policies. A prior mandate in 1991 advised that all newborns receive the hepatitis B vaccine, significantly reducing infection rates among children.
Recent inquiries into the vaccine's timing come from a new panel appointed by Kennedy, which has included several anti-vaccine figures. At recent meetings, concerns were voiced regarding whether infants should receive vaccines at such an early stage, suggesting a shift in public health policy.
Consequences of Delaying the Vaccine
If the newborn vaccination process is delayed, public health experts warn about the potential consequences, predicting significant increases in hepatitis B infections and related childhood mortality. Studies estimate that postponing the vaccine to 2 months could result in over a thousand infections and hundreds of child fatalities.
Despite the potential impact of the committee's recommendations, many experts stress that the existing framework allows hospitals to continue administering the vaccine in practice, ensuring that vulnerable populations are protected. Health officials, including U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, have advocated against any changes to the vaccine guidelines, raising serious concerns about the implications for public health and child safety.
