Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, questioned surgeon general nominee Casey Means about her skepticism regarding hepatitis B vaccines for newborns during confirmation proceedings.

The questioning comes as new research reveals concerning trends in newborn vaccination rates. A study published Tuesday in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that hepatitis B vaccination rates among U.S. newborns declined by more than 10 percent from their peak in early 2023.

The research analyzed data from over 12.4 million newborns and determined that vaccination rates for hepatitis B virus reached their highest levels in early 2023 before beginning to decline. The study provides the most comprehensive recent data on newborn hepatitis B vaccination trends nationwide.

The hepatitis B vaccine is routinely recommended for newborns as part of standard pediatric care protocols. The vaccine protects against a virus that can cause serious liver disease and is typically administered shortly after birth.

Means' nomination for surgeon general has drawn attention due to her previous statements questioning certain vaccination practices. The confirmation process continues as senators evaluate her qualifications and positions on public health policy.