Hepatitis B Birth Dose

Picture of a baby and the words Protect Babies from Hepatitis B.

The hepatitis B shot is safe and effective and has been recommended for infants since 1991.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended within 24 hours of birth for all infants to eliminate the spread of Hepatitis B. Most infants and young children who get hepatitis B will face chronic and lifelong health complications, including liver disease and death.

Since hepatitis B vaccination at birth was recommended in the 1990's, annual hepatitis B infections have reduced by 99%. The birth dose has prevented an estimated 500,000 childhood illnesses and 90,000 childhood deaths, making it a vital practice in keeping infants and young children healthy and free from disease.

Why should my child get the hepatitis B shot?

The hepatitis B vaccine protects your child against hepatitis B, which is especially dangerous in infants and young children.
Many people with hepatitis B don't have symptoms and don't know they are infected. This means people can pass hepatitis B to others without knowing it, including family members or other close contacts.
Hepatitis B vaccination is a part of the recommended childhood vaccine schedule and endorsed by major medical associations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association.

If you have questions about hepatitis B vaccination, we recommend you talk to a trusted health care provider.