Hepatitis B virus: a comprehensive strategy for eliminating transmission in the United States through universal childhood vaccination. Recommendations of the Immunization Practices Advisory Committee (ACIP)

Abstract

The following statement updates all previous recommendations on protection against hepatitis B virus infection, including use of hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis B immune globulin for prophylaxis against hepatitis B virus infection (MMWR 1985;34:313-24,329-35, MMWR 1987;36:353-66, and MMWR 1990:39 [No.RR-2]:8-19) and universal screening of pregnant women to prevent perinatal hepatitis B virus transmission (MMWR 1988;37:341-46,51, and MMWR 1990;39[No.RR-2]:8-19). Recommendations concerning the prevention of other types of viral hepatitis are found in MMWR 1990;39(No.RR-2):1-8, 22-26. This document provides the rationale for a comprehensive strategy to eliminate transmission of hepatitis B virus in the United States. This prevention strategy includes making hepatitis B vaccine a part of routine vaccination schedules for all infants.