Pediatrics

Hepatitis B birth dose reaffirmed as safe, effective

February 10, 2026

In a comprehensive Pediatrics evidence review, investigators evaluated safety, immunogenicity, effectiveness, and public health impact of hepatitis B vaccination at birth compared with delaying the first dose. Across decades of trials, surveillance data, and epidemiologic studies, the birth dose was consistently safe, with only mild, self‑limited reactions and no increased risk of serious or long‑term adverse events. Since universal birth dosing began in 1991, pediatric HBV infections have fallen by ~99%. Delaying the first dose showed no safety or effectiveness advantage, and no evidence supported using post‑vaccination antibody titers to guide series completion.

Clinical takeaway: For medically stable newborns, continuing hepatitis B vaccination within 24 hours of birth is a safe and effective strategy to protect individuals; delaying or relying on serology offers no proven benefit and may increase preventable risk.

Source:

Ulrich AK, et al. (2026, February 5). Pediatrics. Hepatitis B Vaccination at Birth: Safety, Effectiveness, and Public Health Benefit. http://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41639943/