But, to

address the idea that there may be some potential for

harm; the Public Health Service and the American Academy

of Pediatrics issued a joint statement. Both groups and

the vaccine manufacturers agree that Thimerosal must be

removed from all vaccines. They also recommend: � Postponing the first dose of

hepatitis B vaccine from birth to two-six months (AAP

prefers six months) of age for infants born to mothers

who test negative for hepatitis B.

� Postponing hepatitis B immunization

to premature infants of hepB-negative mothers until the

children reach term age and a weight of at least 2.5

kilograms. But if in any circumstance the hepatitis B

status of the mother is unknown at the time of birth, the

vaccine should be given.

All area

hospitals are aware of this recent change. Southern

Regional, Spalding Regional, South Fulton and Henry

medical centers no longer administer hepatitis B vaccines

to newborns of hepB-negative mothers.

The Fayette

County Health Department follows the guidelines of the

PHS by administering the vaccine between two and six

months of age. "We have also found that the majority

of the brands of vaccine that we carry for routine

immunization of young children do not contain

Thimerosal," said a spokesman. Hepatitis B vaccine

is the exception.