US vaccine committee to decide this week on postponing hepatitis B vaccinations

The vaccine advisory panel, personally appointed by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is expected to vote later this week on whether most American children should receive hepatitis B vaccinations at a later age. The exact duration of any proposed delay has not yet been determined, according to the committees new chair.

The concept of postponing hepatitis B shots, traditionally given to newborns, has been championed by Kennedy, a long-time critic of existing vaccination practices, as part of his broader effort to revise U.S. immunization policies.

"We aim to avoid administering treatments to the most vulnerable without thorough testing," said Kirk Milhoan on Monday. "It is crucial to examine these interventions carefully before offering them to newborns or pregnant women, especially in sensitive periods."

A recent evaluation of over 400 independent studies confirmed that the current practice of vaccinating newborns against hepatitis B has reduced childhood infections by more than 95%.

Milhoan also noted that the committee has not yet consulted vaccine manufacturers about potential supply issues that could result from delaying the shots. "Those conversations havent taken place, and they may not be suitable outside the official meeting," he explained.

Experts and vaccine producers have warned that even minor adjustments to the immunization schedule could affect the availability of hepatitis B vaccines and combination vaccines, like those for polio, for a year or more.

The committee is scheduled to convene on Thursday and Friday to discuss the matter.

Author: Olivia Parker