Story perspectives

CDC Drops Hepatitis B Birth-Dose; Experts Warn of Outbreaks

12/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices voted to eliminate the hepatitis B birth-dose recommendation.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. influenced the decision.
California aims to maintain current vaccination guidelines amid concerns about coverage and public health.
Experts warn the decision could undermine the entire childhood vaccination schedule and trigger outbreaks.
Critics argue the move reflects growing vaccine hesitancy and misinformation.

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Story summary

The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices voted to eliminate the hepatitis B birth-dose recommendation.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. influenced the decision.
California aims to maintain current vaccination guidelines amid concerns about coverage and public health.
Experts warn the decision could undermine the entire childhood vaccination schedule and trigger outbreaks.
Critics argue the move reflects growing vaccine hesitancy and misinformation.