U.S. Vaccine Panel Weighs Changes to Infant Hepatitis B Shots and COVID Guidance

What Happened

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) reconvened this week to review updates to national vaccine recommendations. The committee is also expected to vote soon on updated guidance for COVID-19 vaccinations heading into the 2025–2026 season. Details of that proposal were not finalized during this session.

One major topic was a proposed adjustment to the timing of the first hepatitis B vaccine dose in newborns. Currently, the first shot is recommended within 24 hours of birth. The new proposal suggests delaying that dose until one month of age in cases where the mother has tested negative for hepatitis B. The intent is to reduce the number of early-life injections while maintaining protection.

However, the committee postponed a vote on this change, citing concerns over how the recommendation was worded. No final decision has been made, and the issue will be revisited after further review.

In a separate vote, the committee recommended against the use of the combined MMRV vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella) in children under four years old. This follows data showing a slightly increased risk of febrile seizures in younger children when using the combined vaccine compared to giving the MMR and varicella shots separately.

The committee is also expected to vote soon on updated guidance for COVID-19 vaccinations heading into fall and winter.

Why It Matters

ACIP’s recommendations directly shape the national immunization schedule used by pediatricians, family doctors, hospitals, schools, and public health departments across the country. When the committee makes changes, it influences both clinical practice and insurance coverage. Most insurers, including Medicaid, follow ACIP guidelines for what vaccines to cover and when.

The proposal to delay the first hepatitis B dose for certain newborns could mean fewer immediate injections after birth. Some parents and clinicians see this as beneficial. However, any delay in vaccination also means a longer window before full protection begins. While the risk of infection in babies born to hepatitis B-negative mothers is very low, medical professionals will be watching closely for how this change might affect outcomes.

The updated recommendation on the MMRV vaccine reflects an effort to minimize rare side effects, even if they are uncommon. Febrile seizures, though typically not harmful in the long term, are alarming for parents and providers. By separating the doses, the committee hopes to lower this risk while preserving the benefits of immunization against all four diseases.

Upcoming COVID-19 vaccine recommendations will play a key role as public health officials prepare for the next respiratory virus season. Decisions on booster timing and eligibility could impact access for millions across the country.

How It Affects You

For parents, these proposed and approved changes may alter the timing and format of childhood vaccinations. If the hepatitis B guidance is updated, you might have the option to delay the first dose for your newborn if certain medical conditions are met.

If your child is under four and due for measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox vaccines, the updated MMRV guidance means doctors will likely offer the shots separately instead of in one combined dose. That may require more appointments or injections, but it slightly reduces the risk of certain side effects.

For Americans, especially those at higher risk of COVID-19 complications, upcoming changes to booster recommendations could determine what vaccines are available this fall and for whom. Staying informed about these updates will help ensure access to the most current protection.

These decisions also influence insurance coverage, school entry requirements, and public health messaging. While technical in nature, small changes in vaccine policy ripple outward to affect how healthcare is delivered and received across the country.