The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) has expressed significant concern following the recent decision by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to withdraw the universal recommendation for administering the hepatitis B vaccine at birth for infants born in the United States. This change, announced on December 5, 2025, reverses over three decades of public health policy aimed at preventing hepatitis B infections among newborns.
The universal birth-dose recommendation, established in 1991, has played a crucial role in reducing acute hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections among infants and young children. Since its implementation, there has been a significant decline in new cases, thereby protecting countless children from becoming chronic carriers of the virus. The hepatitis B vaccine is recognized as both safe and effective, and it is the most reliable method for preventing lifelong HBV infection.
Brigid Groves, PharmD, MS, and vice president of professional affairs at APhA, stated, “Pharmacists have a long history of helping to prevent disease transmission through vaccine recommendation and administration, including against hepatitis B. We remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting patients across their lifespan. The science is clear: the hepatitis B birth dose saves lives, and there is no new evidence to justify delaying or removing this critical protection.”
Newborns who contract hepatitis B face a daunting risk. Approximately 90% of infected infants are likely to become chronic carriers, and one in four will die from HBV-related liver failure or liver cancer. Furthermore, young children who contract the virus have a 20% to 50% chance of developing lifelong chronic infection. These severe health outcomes can be prevented through timely vaccination, which also reduces the need for costly and intensive medical treatments later in life.
APhA advocates for the preservation of the established, evidence-based childhood immunization schedule, which includes the hepatitis B birth dose, a vaccine that has consistently proven safe and effective. Additionally, APhA emphasizes the importance of hepatitis B vaccination for adults. ACIP continues to recommend the vaccine series for all adults aged 19 to 59 years, as well as for those aged 60 years and older who have risk factors, and any adult requesting vaccination. Hepatitis B vaccines are widely recognized as safe, effective, and covered by insurance.
In light of this recent change, APhA will continue to advocate for evidence-based immunization policies to ensure the health and safety of patients and communities nationwide.
About APhA: The American Pharmacists Association is the only organization advancing the entire pharmacy profession. Headquartered in Washington, DC, APhA supports pharmacists, student pharmacists, and pharmacy technicians in their roles to optimize medication use and improve patient health outcomes. Through advocacy, education, and resources, APhA serves as the pharmacy voice in developing national guidelines, policies, and best practices that advance the profession and enhance patient care. For further information, visit www.pharmacist.com.
