The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted 8–3 on Friday to remove the long-standing universal recommendation for administering the hepatitis B vaccine at birth. Instead, the panel shifted toward “individual-based decision-making” guided by a newborn’s risk and the mother’s test results.
Recommendation Based on Maternal Testing
Under the new guidance, parents of infants born to mothers who test negative for hepatitis B may decide with their health care provider whether the birth dose is appropriate. If the shot is deferred, the first dose should be given no earlier than 2 months of age.
Importantly, there is no change for infants born to mothers who test positive or whose hepatitis B status is unknown — those newborns must still receive the vaccine immediately after birth.
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Additional Risk Factors
ACIP added that parents and providers should consider any heightened risks, including living with someone who is hepatitis B-positive or frequent contact with people from regions where the virus is common.
Second Vote on Older Children
In a separate 6–4 vote, with one abstention, the committee recommended that parents of older children consult their doctor about hepatitis B antibody testing before additional vaccine doses. Insurance is expected to cover this testing, which determines whether protective antibody levels have already been reached.
What Happens Next
The policy change will take effect once it is approved by CDC acting director and HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill.
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