Mercury, though, is used as a preservative in the Hepatitis B vaccine given to all newborns around the first day of life and again when they are only 4 weeks old. While there are no data that this has caused harm to children in the doses they get from routine immunization, this week the AAP and the PHS called for the elimination of mercury from all vaccines. In the meantime, though, they have urged that the Hepatitis B vaccine no longer be given in the nursery to healthy babies, but postponed until they are 2 to 6 months old and have gained some weight. Likewise, the second Hepatitis B vaccine would be delayed until one month to four months after the first shot. Immunizations remain one of the greatest discoveries in human history, having saved innumerable lives and prevented measureless suffering.
Available vaccines continue to be improved, and vaccine schedules continue to be refined.
Thanks for asking about this important topic. Because of this, many neonates are beginning to receive Hepatitis B routinely at birth again. This is not a substitute for medical care or your doctor's attention. Please seek the advice of your pediatrician or family doctor. Dr. Greene's HouseCalls presents this data as is, without any warranty of any kind, express or implied.