What's happened
U.S. health officials, under the influence of Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., have reversed decades of vaccination policy by ending universal hepatitis B vaccination for newborns. The move, driven by a panel with controversial appointees, faces widespread criticism from medical groups and public health experts, raising concerns over increased hepatitis B risks.
What's behind the headline?
The decision to end universal hepatitis B vaccination at birth marks a significant departure from longstanding public health practice, driven by Kennedy's panel which questions the safety and necessity of early vaccination. This move undermines decades of scientific consensus, which shows the vaccine's safety and effectiveness in preventing chronic liver disease. The process by which the panel reached this decision was marred by a lack of transparency, exclusion of CDC experts, and the presence of vaccine skeptics, raising concerns about politicization of health policy. This shift risks reversing progress made in reducing hepatitis B infections among children, potentially leading to increased cases of liver failure and cancer. The broader implications include erosion of public trust in health authorities and a dangerous precedent for vaccine policy influenced by political agendas rather than evidence. The next steps will depend on CDC leadership's acceptance of the panel's recommendation, which could further polarize public health efforts and fuel vaccine misinformation.
What the papers say
The New York Times highlights the political tensions and the departure from scientific consensus, quoting experts who warn of increased hepatitis B risks. The Japan Times emphasizes the process's lack of transparency and the influence of Kennedy's anti-vax stance, noting the potential harm to public health. AP News reports on the widespread opposition from medical groups, stressing the importance of maintaining established vaccination practices. These contrasting perspectives underscore the controversy surrounding the policy change, with critics warning of long-term health consequences and supporters citing parental choice and skepticism of vaccine safety.
How we got here
The move follows a series of policy changes initiated by Secretary Kennedy, who has promoted vaccine skepticism and questioned established public health guidelines. Historically, the CDC has recommended that all infants receive a hepatitis B vaccine shortly after birth, a policy proven to significantly reduce infection rates and save lives. The recent shift reflects Kennedy's broader efforts to review and potentially alter vaccine schedules, amid accusations of politicizing public health decisions.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Did the US End Universal Hepatitis B Vaccination for Newborns?
Recently, the US made a surprising change to its vaccination policy by ending the universal hepatitis B vaccine for newborns. This decision has sparked widespread debate and raised many questions about public health, safety, and government influence. In this page, we'll explore why this policy shift happened, who is behind it, and what it means for public health moving forward. If you're wondering about the reasons behind this change and its potential impact, keep reading to find clear, straightforward answers.
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Could the US policy change influence vaccination policies worldwide?
The recent reversal of US vaccination policy, particularly ending universal hepatitis B vaccination for newborns, has sparked global debate. Many are wondering if this decision will impact vaccination strategies in other countries and what it means for international health efforts. Below, we explore the potential global repercussions of this controversial policy shift and answer common questions about its wider implications.
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Why Did the US Change Its Vaccination Policy for Newborns?
Recently, the US reversed its long-standing policy of vaccinating all newborns against hepatitis B. This decision has sparked widespread debate and concern among parents, health experts, and policymakers. Many are asking why this change happened, what it means for public health, and what the future holds for vaccination policies in the US. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this controversial shift and what it could mean for the health of children nationwide.
More on these topics
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Robert Francis Kennedy Jr. (born January 17, 1954), also known by his initials RFK Jr., is an American politician, environmental lawyer, author, conspiracy theorist, and anti-vaccine activist serving since 2025 as the 26th United States secretary of healt
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a national public health institute in the United States. It is a United States federal agency, under the Department of Health and Human Services, and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.
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Hepatitis B vaccine is a vaccine that prevents hepatitis B. The first dose is recommended within 24 hours of birth with either two or three more doses given after that.
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The American Academy of Pediatrics is an American professional association of pediatricians, headquartered in Itasca, Illinois. It maintains its Department of Federal Affairs office in Washington, D.C.
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.