New Jersey Health Department Clarifies Safety of Acetaminophen, COVID-19 Vaccinations, and Hepatitis B Vaccinations for Pregnant and Newborn Patients

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) and the New Jersey Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Authority (NJMIHIA) have released a statement clarifying the safety of acetaminophen, COVID-19 vaccinations, and hepatitis B vaccinations for pregnant and newborn patients. Despite recent federal debates, these organizations continue to align with leading pediatric and obstetric professional societies, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM). Evidence-based research demonstrates the continued benefits of early vaccinations and safe use of acetaminophen for pregnant people.

Key Takeaways:

• Acetaminophen is considered safe and effective when used as directed and as needed during pregnancy, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM).
• Pregnant and breastfeeding patients, as well as all children ages 6 months and older, should be offered COVID-19 vaccination, consistent with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM).
• Pregnant patients should not avoid indicated treatment for fever or pain, including acetaminophen, as untreated fever and untreated pain increase adverse maternal and infant health risks.
• Current evidence does not demonstrate a causal link between prenatal acetaminophen use with increased risk of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, or intellectual disability.
• The New Jersey Department of Health and the New Jersey Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Authority will continue to monitor ongoing research and rely on credible scientific data to inform recommendations.

Numerous healthcare organizations, including the New Jersey Maternal Care Quality Collaborative (NJMCQC) Clinical Best Practices Workgroup, have come together to review clear, evidence-based guidance aimed at protecting the health and safety of pregnant and lactating patients, their infants, and families.

Statistics:

• The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant patients and newborns be offered Hepatitis B (HepB) vaccination.
• COVID-19 vaccination is available to everyone in New Jersey ages 6 months and older.
• Acetaminophen remains available over the counter.
• Current evidence does not demonstrate a causal link between prenatal acetaminophen use with increased risk of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, or intellectual disability.

Sources:

• The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH)
• The New Jersey Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Authority (NJMIHIA)
• The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
• The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
• The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM)
• The New Jersey Maternal Care Quality Collaborative (NJMCQC) Clinical Best Practices Workgroup