(Dec. 12, 2025) – After the Dec. 5 vote by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices to withdraw the recommendation of a universal birth dose of hepatitis B vaccine, the American Academy of Pediatrics emphasized the
AAP recommendation for routine hepatitis B vaccination for all newborns. In a
statement released after the ACIP vote, AAP emphasized the Hep B birth dose is critical to protect all newborns. The AAP recommends all babies receive a first dose of the Hep B vaccine within 24 hours of birth, a second dose at one to two months of age and a third dose at six months of age. In its statement, AAP emphasized the pacing of these doses has been rigorously tested and proven to be safe and effective over several decades. The American Academy of Family Physicians also swiftly responded to the ACIP vote by issuing an
AAFP statement voicing strong support for maintaining universal Hep B vaccination at birth, calling on the CDC to ensure this life-saving protection remain the standard of care.
--
Karen Braman