What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a virus that infects the liver. In some cases, it can lead to serious complications such as liver damage or failure.
How is Hepatitis B spread?
Hepatitis B is spread through blood and bodily fluids. Transmission can occur when infected blood comes into contact with broken skin or mucous membranes, for example, during childbirth, through cuts, or through sexual contact. The virus can also survive on surfaces for up to a week, making it possible to spread through shared household items like razors, nail clippers, or toothbrushes.
Why is Hepatitis B a concern for newborns?
When a newborn contracts hepatitis B, there is a high likelihood (about 90%) that the infection becomes chronic. Chronic hepatitis B can lead to long term complications such as liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, or even death. 25% of children who develop chronic hepatitis B die from the disease.
Why give the Hepatitis B vaccine at birth?
Administering the hepatitis B vaccine at birth helps protect infants from infection if they are exposed during delivery or at home. Although most mothers are screened during pregnancy, screening can miss infections acquired late in pregnancy. For household contacts, adults with hepatitis B can be asymptomatic and may not know they are infected. Before the birth-dose vaccine became routine, about half of infected children were exposed during birth and the other half through other routes, such as close household contact.
We at MVP recommend giving the first hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth while still in the hospital. This applies to most babies – for low birth weight, prematurity, or babies whose parent’s hepatitis B screening is pending or positive the timing and treatment may differ. If you’re unsure about your baby’s specific circumstances, please talk with your provider so we can guide you.
Check out our Vaccine Policy and information for more information.
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