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 eliminate the universal recommendation for administering the hepatitis B vaccine at birth for infants in the United States. This shift, announced on December 5, 2025, marks a reversal of a public health measure that has been in place since 1991.
The universal birth-dose recommendation has been credited with a dramatic decline in acute hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections among infants and young children. This decline has prevented numerous children from becoming chronic carriers of the virus. The hepatitis B vaccine is recognized as safe, effective, and the most dependable method for preventing chronic HBV infection. Infants born to mothers who are not carriers still face risks from potential exposure to infected household members, caregivers, or even through shared personal items, reinforcing the necessity for universal vaccination.
Impact of Vaccine Removal on Public Health
Brigid Groves, PharmD, MS, vice president of professional affairs at APhA, emphasized the importance of the hepatitis B birth dose in safeguarding public health. “Pharmacists have a long history of helping to prevent disease transmission through vaccine recommendation and administration, including against hepatitis B,” she stated. “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.”
Statistics reveal the dire consequences of HBV infection. Newborns who contract the virus have a 90% chance of developing chronic infections, and one in four infants infected at birth may succumb to HBV-related liver failure or liver cancer. For young children, the likelihood of developing a lifelong chronic infection ranges from 20% to 50%. These severe outcomes, along with the extensive and costly treatments they necessitate, can be avoided through timely vaccination.
The APhA strongly advocates for maintaining the integrity of the established, evidence-based childhood immunization schedule, which includes the hepatitis B birth dose that has consistently demonstrated both safety and efficacy.
Continued Advocacy for Hepatitis B Vaccination
In addition to childhood immunization, APhA underscores the importance of hepatitis B vaccination for adults. ACIP continues to recommend the vaccine series for all adults aged 19–59 years, for those aged 60 years and older with risk factors, and for any adult who requests vaccination. Hepatitis B vaccines are considered safe, effective, and covered by insurance.
APhA remains committed to advocating for evidence-based immunization policies to ensure the health and safety of patients and communities across the nation. The organization represents the voice of the pharmacy profession, working to advance patient care and public health initiatives through robust advocacy, education, and resources.
About APhA: The American Pharmacists Association is the only organization dedicated to advancing the entire pharmacy profession. Based in Washington, DC, APhA supports pharmacists, student pharmacists, and pharmacy technicians, enhancing their roles in optimizing medication use and improving patient health outcomes. The association actively participates in the development of national guidelines, policies, and best practices to further the profession and enhance patient care. For more information, visit www.pharmacist.com.
