Hepatitis B virus (HBV) can be passed from an infected person to their child during birth. Without proper treatment and follow up, infants are at a high risk of hepatitis B infection. Perinatal transmission of HBV can be prevented.
The Perinatal Hepatitis B Prevention program (PHBPP) focuses on identifying HBV-positive pregnant people and preventing the spread of hepatitis B virus to newborn infants.
The Office of Immunization works with local health jurisdictions on tracking disease, case management, and education.
- PHBPP ensures infants who are exposed to hepatitis B are identified and given timely treatments, vaccinations, and tests are reported to DOH as required by law.
- Preventing perinatal hepatitis B requires that we work closely with local health departments, laboratories, prenatal care providers, birthing hospitals, infant care providers, and infected mothers.