In this episode of The Health Advocates, we break down one of the most pivotal and controversial ACIP meetings in recent history. The CDC’s vaccine advisory committee voted to roll back the universal hepatitis B birth dose — a policy that has protected newborns from chronic liver disease for more than three decades. We explain what ACIP decided, why the changes were not based on new scientific evidence, and how misinformation and ideological viewpoints shaped the discussion.

We also explore the real-world consequences for families, clinicians, and health systems. From confusing new recommendations to unnecessary blood tests to disruptions in the overall childhood immunization schedule, these changes will make it harder for parents to access safe, routine preventive care. But the meeting also revealed something hopeful: strong advocacy — from medical societies, public health experts, grassroots organizers, and patient groups — helped prevent even more extreme proposals from becoming policy.

Finally, we discuss what comes next as ACIP reviews additional childhood vaccines and how advocates, clinicians, and community members can stay engaged to protect science-based immunization policy.

Contact Our Host

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

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