"IDSA strongly supports the use of scientific evidence to inform public health policy.…Because neonatal immune systems are underdeveloped, HSV infection in newborns is more likely to result in death or permanent disability. Indeed, of the eleven cases investigated by DOHMH between 2004 and 2011, two of the infants died and at least two others suffered brain damage.Given the severity of these consequences, the risks associated with MBP as well as the importance of practicing circumcisions and related procedures in a sterile environment should be clearly communicated to parents or legal guardians in advance of the procedure. Accordingly, IDSA supports the informed consent requirement currently under consideration and urges the Board of Health to approve it."
I'm told the American Sexually Transmitted Diseases Association has also weighed in on the side of the Health Department – meaning that all experts are on the side of the Health Department. The only one who isn't, Dr. Daniel Berman, is not only not a top tier expert, he is widely reviled by his medical colleagues. He's also haredi and is in the pocket of haredi rabbis.
All this should mean that haredi rabbis approve the informed consent and comply with the Health Department.
But of course, they won't.