Which group is NOT recommended for screening for chronic hepatitis B infection?

The correct answer highlights that not all newborns need to be routinely screened for chronic hepatitis B infection. While all newborns are generally vaccinated against hepatitis B, routine screening is not universally recommended for this group unless specific risk factors are present.

In contrast, individuals with chronic kidney disease, pregnant women, and household contacts of chronic hepatitis B patients constitute groups at higher risk of infection or disease progression. They are therefore recommended for screening to ensure timely detection and management of hepatitis B, which can help prevent transmission and improve health outcomes.

Individuals with chronic kidney disease are at elevated risk due to factors like frequent healthcare interactions and potential exposure during treatments like dialysis. Pregnant women are screened to prevent mother-to-child transmission during childbirth, while household contacts may also be tested as they are at greater risk of contracting the virus from someone in their environment who is already infected. Thus, the focus on these specific populations enhances public health efforts aimed at controlling hepatitis B infection.