Today, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted 8–3 to eliminate the universal recommendation that all newborns receive a hepatitis B vaccine shortly after birth.
The shot would now be recommended only for infants whose mothers test positive for hepatitis B, with parents of other newborns advised to delay the first dose until at least two months of age.
This marks the most sweeping revision to the childhood immunization schedule under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Faculty experts at the George Washington University issued public comments to the CDC earlier this week. They are available to offer insight. To schedule an interview with an expert, please contact Katelyn Deckelbaum, katelyn [dot] deckelbaum
gwu [dot] edu (katelyn[dot]deckelbaum[at]gwu[dot]edu).
Kelly Gebo is the dean of the GW Milken Institute School of Public Health. An infectious disease physician and epidemiologist, Dr. Gebo’s research has focused on disparities in access to care and outcomes among people affected by HIV, COVID-19, and other infectious diseases.
Sara Rosenbaum, is the Emeritus Professor of Health Policy and Management, and previously served as founding Chair of the Milken Institute School of Public Health Department of Health Policy at George Washington University. She is a nationally recognized expert on health care access for vulnerable populations.
MaryBeth Musumeci is an associate teaching professor in the Department of Health Policy and Management at GW’s Milken Institute School of Public Health. Her work concentrates on Medicaid for people with disabilities, including issues related to people dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid, community integration, and long-term services and supports, and Medicaid demonstration waivers.
Alison Barkoff, is the Harold and Jane Hirsh Associate Professor of Health Law and Policy at the GW Milken Institute School of Public Health. She is a nationally recognized expert in health law and policy and can discuss access to healthcare, insurance and other issues.
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