CDC ends universal hepatitis B vaccine for newborns, opting for shared decision-making

The CDC has ended universal hepatitis B vaccination for newborns, shifting to shared decision-making between parents and healthcare providers. This change follows a recommendation from the CDC's vaccine advisers, a committee recently reconstituted by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Experts warn this could lead to increased illness. Hepatitis B vaccination for infants was recommended since 1991, significantly reducing childhood infections. Major medical groups still advocate for the birth dose.