Why Some Lawmakers Are Questioning the Hepatitis B Vaccine

A heated debate is happening about the hepatitis B vaccine for newborns. Senator Bill Cassidy, a doctor and Republican leader in Congress, has strong words for the Health and Human Services Department. He thinks they are not following science. The CDC's advisory panel is looking at the vaccine schedule. They might suggest giving the shot to kids when they are older. Cassidy is not happy. He believes the vaccine is safe and effective. He says it prevents a lot of hepatitis B cases. But others disagree. Some Republicans, like Senators Roger Marshall and Rand Paul, have concerns. They think the vaccine might not be necessary right after birth. They want more discussion about it. The debate is intense. The CDC's former director, Susan Monarez, said she was pressured to change the vaccine recommendations. She claimed Kennedy's team ignored data showing the vaccine's benefits. A recent study supports the vaccine. It says delaying the shot could lead to more infections. This is a big deal. The vaccine has cut hepatitis B cases by over 99 percent since 1991. If the recommendation changes, it could undo years of progress. The meeting is happening at a tense time. Kennedy has replaced the advisory committee members. Some are skeptical about vaccines. The outcome of this debate could affect many families. It's important to understand both sides. The vaccine has helped a lot of people. But some worry about its impact on newborns. The discussion is far from over.