WASHINGTON—Today, a federal vaccine advisory committee voted 8–3 to recommend ending the longstanding policy that all U.S. newborns receive the hepatitis B vaccine at birth. The new guidance suggests that only infants whose mothers test positive for hepatitis B, or whose maternal infection status is unknown, should be guaranteed the birth dose. For all other infants, the decision would be deferred to parents and doctors.

“We are deeply concerned by today’s vote. The universal birth dose of the hepatitis B vaccine has been a critical public health safeguard—especially for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities that bear a disproportionate burden of chronic hepatitis B and account for over 50–58% of all Americans living with chronic hepatitis B," said Juliet K. Choi, president and CEO of APIAHF. "Removing this broad protection will not only jeopardize decades of progress, it will leave too many infants vulnerable simply because of gaps in maternal testing or delayed diagnosis. We call on public health leaders to uphold proven, equitable preventative care.”

“The Hepatitis B vaccine is safe and it works—physicians and other medical professionals have administered the vaccine for over 40 years with millions of doses given," said Susan Wu, MD, Pediatrician and Board Member, NCAPIP. "Eliminating universal Hepatitis B vaccine at birth will result in more children becoming infected with a disease which is preventable and has no cure.“

APIAHF and NCAPIP urge federal and state health authorities, hospitals, and pediatric providers to continue offering the birth dose of the hepatitis B vaccine as standard practice and encourage parents, especially in AANHPI and other high-risk communities, to consult with their healthcare providers about timely vaccination.

Achieving health equity for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities through law, policy and practice.

NCAPIP represents Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander physicians committed to the advancement of the health and well-being of their patients and communities, with the goal of optimal health for all.