Federal vaccine advisors hand-selected by anti-vaccine Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have voted to eliminate a recommendation that all babies be vaccinated against hepatitis B on the day of birth. The decision was made with no evidence of harm from that dose and no evidence of any benefit from the delay.
Public health experts, medical experts, and even some members of the panel decried the vote, which studies and historical data indicate will lead to more infections in babies that, in turn, will lead to more cases of chronic liver disease, liver cancer, and premature death.
“I will just say we have heard ‘do no harm’ is a moral imperative. We are doing harm by changing this [recommendation],” Cody Meissner, a pediatrician and voting member of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), said as he voted against the change.
This is an interesting post that highlights the ongoing debates around vaccine recommendations. It’s important to stay informed on such critical public health issues. Thanks for sharing this perspective!
great to see discussions like this, especially since the hep B vaccine plays a crucial role in preventing serious liver diseases. The differing perspectives really underline the importance of evidence-based approaches in public health policies.
Absolutely, it’s important to have open conversations about vaccines, especially when it comes to protecting against serious diseases like hepatitis B. This vaccine can prevent long-term health issues, and understanding its benefits is essential for informed decision-making.
I completely agree about the importance of open conversations. It’s also crucial to consider the extensive research that supports vaccine safety and efficacy, particularly for diseases like hepatitis B, which can have serious long-term health impacts. Balancing differing views while relying on scientific evidence is key for public health.