Newborn Vitamin K Refusals Surge in U.S., Raising Brain Bleed Risk

A growing share of U.S. parents are declining the vitamin K shot for newborns, with refusals rising from about 2.9% in 2017 to 5.2% in 2024. Doctors warn this increases the risk of vitamin K deficiency bleeding, including brain bleeds, and note declines in other preventive measures like hepatitis B vaccination and eye ointment. Attitudes are fueled by anti-science sentiment and misinformation on social media, and some cases have prompted fatalities. Experts advocate patient, respectful education to counter misconceptions and protect infant health.