The $1.6 million study, funded under the purview of Robert F Kennedy Jr, the secretary of the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), sparked outrage due to its design, which involved withholding hepatitis B vaccines from some newborns in a nation with a high prevalence of the disease. The ethical concerns centered on the potential harm to infants who were not vaccinated, given the well-established efficacy and safety of hepatitis B vaccines.

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is a major global health problem, particularly in Africa. Chronic hepatitis B infection significantly increases the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer. Vaccination is a highly effective method of preventing hepatitis B infection, and the WHO recommends that all infants receive their first dose of the vaccine as soon as possible after birth, preferably within 24 hours.

Boum emphasized the importance of ethical research practices. "It’s of importance for Africa CDC to have evidence that can be translated in policy, but this has to be done within the norm. So we are..." he stated, highlighting the need for research to adhere to ethical guidelines and respect established medical standards.

The study's cancellation raises questions about the oversight and ethical review processes for international research projects, particularly those involving vulnerable populations. The incident underscores the importance of rigorous ethical scrutiny to ensure that research studies do not compromise the health and well-being of participants. The future implications for similar research projects in Africa remain to be seen, but this case is likely to prompt a re-evaluation of ethical standards and review processes.