Wisconsin DHS continues to recommend hepatitis B vaccination for newborns

WISCONSIN (CBS 58) -- Wisconsin's Department of Health Services is breaking ranks with a federal vaccine board. 

Last week, CDC advisors voted to change the recommended vaccine for hepatitis B.

For decades, the standard was that babies got the vaccine within 24 hours of birth. Now, they say that should only apply if the mom tests positive. 

Wisconsin health experts say the science is clear, and they will continue their 24-hour recommendation. 

"The consensus among people who work in the childhood vaccination space is that really nothing should change," said Dr. Ryan Westergaard, DHS chief medical officer. "The evidence hasn't changed, so the practice shouldn't change."

Health experts say this will not affect vaccine availability or insurance coverage. 

If you have questions, you're encouraged to talk to your pediatrician.