IPHA Urges ACIP to Uphold Evidence-Based Recommendations for the Universal Hepatitis B Birth Dose

IPHA Urges ACIP to Uphold Evidence-Based Recommendations for the Universal Hepatitis B Birth Dose

The Illinois Public Health Association (IPHA) is urging the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to maintain the long-standing, evidence-based recommendations for the universal hepatitis B birth dose.

In comments submitted to ACIP ahead of its September 18-19, 2025 meeting, IPHA emphasized that since its implementation in 1991, data show that hepatitis infections and related deaths have decreased significantly due to the universal hepatitis B birth dose. Reversal of this policy will eliminate access to a safe and effective vaccine that prevents chronic hepatitis B infection and liver cancer.

It is critical that any changes to US vaccine recommendations should only occur after a rigorous scientific review and should be evidence-based. IPHA strongly supports the use of evidence-based guidance to inform public health policy and collaborates with public health and healthcare organizations to encourage continued access and health insurance coverage to life-saving immunizations to protect the health of people across Illinois and the US.