Home / Health / Hepatitis B Vaccine Rule Change Sparks Health Fears
Hepatitis B Vaccine Rule Change Sparks Health Fears
5 Dec
Summary
- CDC panel may advise against routine hepatitis B vaccine at birth.
- Hepatitis B and C are bloodborne viruses, often spread mother-to-child.
- Many hepatitis cases are asymptomatic until advanced stages.
A significant public health debate is unfolding regarding hepatitis B vaccination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's advisory panel is reportedly considering a recommendation against the routine birth dose of the hepatitis B vaccine. This potential change has alarmed health experts who fear it could increase infant exposure to the virus.
The situation is complicated by mixed messages from the Trump administration concerning hepatitis. While initiatives to boost screening and combat hepatitis C have been announced, a national viral hepatitis lab was closed, and skepticism about vaccine safety has been voiced.
Hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver, can stem from viruses (A, B, C) or non-viral causes like alcohol abuse and obesity. Hepatitis B and C, in particular, can lead to chronic liver damage, cirrhosis, liver failure, and cancer if not managed. Many cases present no early symptoms, with distinctive signs like jaundice and confusion appearing only in advanced stages.
