The Hepatitis B Birth Dose
Pediatricians and family practice physicians have a critical role in Hepatitis B prevention. Promotion of the Hepatitis B birth dose for all infants in your care is a step to lead to the reduction of perinatal transmission of the Hepatitis B virus. According to the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the birth dose provides a safety net for infants as medical errors lead to infant susceptibility to perinatal hepatitis B transmission.
Here are some ways you can help prevent the spread of perinatal hepatitis B:
- Promote the hepatitis B vaccination birth dose given in the hospital. The hepatitis B birth dose documentation can be obtained in the District of Columbia Immunization Information System (DOCIIS) DOCIIS-Web Main Page (stchealthops.com) for all infants born in a District birthing facility. Register for access.
- Obtain the infectious disease status of the parent for each new infant pediatric admission (HBsAg, HIV, etc.) Infants of HBsAg+ parents can breastfeed as the hepatitis B virus is not spread by breastfeeding. Precaution for cracked and bleeding nipples.
- Timely administration of the Hepatitis B vaccine for infants is important in developing immunity in all infants. For infants born to HBsAg+ parents, it is recommended by the ACIP that all three doses of Hepatitis B be completed by the six-month visit. Infants born to HBsAg+ parents who were born under 2000 grams, need four doses of Hepatitis B vaccine.
- Infants who are born of parents who are HBsAg+ need to get tested for both Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) and Hepatitis B Surface Antibody (HBsAb) at their 9 – 12-month visit. This will tell whether the infant is immune, still susceptible, or infected with the hepatitis B virus.
- If the Perinatal Hepatitis B Nurse Specialist has not reached out to your practice about an infant HBsAg exposure, contact the nurse specialist at 202-576-9325 or fax the Notifiable Post-Delivery form (link) up to 24 months of age.
Helpful links for pediatric providers: