The CDC has terminated its long-standing "universal" recommendation that every newborn receive a hepatitis B vaccine dose within 24 hours of birth, marking a significant shift in U.S. childhood immunization policy.

The CDC has terminated its long-standing "universal" recommendation that every newborn receive a hepatitis B vaccine dose within 24 hours of birth, marking a significant shift in U.S. childhood immunization policy. 

Under the updated guidance, the birth dose is still recommended immediately for babies whose mothers are hepatitis B–positive or whose hepatitis B status is unknown. 

For infants born to mothers who test negative, the CDC now recommends "individual-based decision-making"—meaning parents and clinicians decide together whether to give the shot at birth or start the series later. If the birth dose is deferred, the CDC suggests beginning the series no earlier than 2 months of age. 

The change follows an 8–3 vote by ACIP on December 5, 2025, and the CDC adopted the recommendation on December 16, 2025. 

Pediatric and public health groups, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, have criticized the move, warning it could weaken a proven "safety net" that helps prevent missed protections for infants. 

Source: Aquamarine Queens Products ✅