Joint Media Release
Hepatitis Australia and ASHM are urging Australians to maintain routine hepatitis B vaccinations for newborns following reports that a federal advisory panel in the United States is reversing the long-standing recommendation that all medically stable newborns who meet a weight threshold receive their first dose of hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth. The change has sparked significant concern among health experts both in Australia and worldwide.
Since routine childhood vaccination began, hepatitis B rates in young people have fallen by a staggering 60 per cent.
Hepatitis Australia CEO Lucy Clynes said it was vital for Australians to focus on the clear evidence and the strong track record of the hepatitis B vaccine in Australia for safety and effectiveness.
“Australia’s hepatitis B vaccination program is safe, effective and has been proven to save lives.
“The birth dose remains an essential part of protecting babies from a virus that can quietly cause lifelong liver damage and even fatal liver cancer.
“Parents should know that there is no suggestion of any change to Australian recommendations. The evidence supporting birth dose vaccination is overwhelming and continues to be endorsed by Australia’s foremost medical experts.”
The vaccine is safe and works
Ms Clynes said the hepatitis B vaccine has been safely used for more than 40 years and has a very strong track record.
“Babies tolerate the birth dose very well, with only mild and short-lasting side effects reported in a small number of cases. Protection begins immediately and lasts well into adolescence and adulthood.
“The birth dose has been recommended since 2000 and is provided free as part of the National Immunisation Program. Australia recommends four doses before six months of age, beginning within 24 hours of birth when the infant is medically stable.”
The risk to babies is real
Professor Jane Davies, an infectious diseases expert who chairs Hepatitis Australia’s Research and Clinical Advisory Group, said hepatitis B can be passed from mother to child during birth.
“Without vaccination, babies who are exposed to the virus have around a 90 per cent chance of developing chronic hepatitis B.
“Chronic infection can lead to liver scarring, liver cancer and serious lifelong illness. Early vaccination offers powerful protection against these outcomes.
“93 per cent of Australian one-year-olds are currently vaccinated against hepatitis B. Since the introduction of routine childhood vaccinations, hepatitis B cases among young people have dropped by 60 per cent.”
“Communities are better protected, and Australia is making good progress toward the long-term goal of eliminating hepatitis B transmission.”
Australia’s program is working and saving lives
ASHM (formerly the Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine) CEO Alexis Apostolellis said the hepatitis B vaccination program has been a critical public health success, and parents should feel confident about continuing to follow local vaccination guidance.
“We know childhood hepatitis B vaccination works. The decline in hepatitis B among Australians aged under twenty is a direct result of sustained and evidence-based public health policy.
“Parents deserve clarity. The evidence supporting the hepatitis B birth dose vaccine is extremely strong.
“It is supported by Australia’s foremost medical specialists and international health authorities. It remains one of the most effective tools we have to prevent babies from developing chronic hepatitis B.”
Anyone seeking further information about hepatitis B or vaccination can call HepLink on 1800 437 222 for free, confidential advice.
-- END --
Media contacts
Darren Rodrigo
Hepatitis Australia
Media Advisor
0414 783 405
Joseph McMahon
ASHM
Senior Marketing and Communications Manager
0422 232 277
