A CDC panel recommends scaling back hepatitis-b vaccination for infants.
Baltimore, Md (KM) Despite the recommendation from a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention vaccine advisory committee scaling back recommendations regarding the hepatitis-b-vaccine, the Maryland Department of Health is still urging parents get the vaccination of or their infants starting at birth. “Babies and young children are at increased risk of acquiring infectious diseases because their immune systems do not the tools to fight off serious infections and diseases,” says Dr Meg Sullivan, a pediatrician with the Maryland Department of Health. “In particular, the hepatitis-b vaccine, which I will note has been tested extensively for safety and efficacy for disease, and when administered within 24 hours of birth is highly effective in preventing new born infections.”
“Hepatitis-b is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause acute between short term and/or chronic which is long term disease,” Dr. Sullivan continues. “Infection is spread through blood or body fluids which can include during birth or close contact with an infected care giver or household member.”
Recently, vaccine advisers to the CDC have narrowed the hepatitis-b vaccine recommendation to birth only if the child’s mother tests positive for the virus. Dr. Sullivan says it’s best to listen to your primary care physician or health care provider when it comes to the hepatitis-b vaccination. “First and foremost, I would encourage any parent that has a question right now about the recommendations to talk with their health care provider. I will also say the Maryland Department of Health continues to recommend that all newborns should receive a hepatitis-b vaccine at birth, and that all children should complete the full vaccination series within 18 months.”
When administered with 24 hours after birth, Dr. Sullivan says the vaccine is highly effective in preventing the hepatitis-b infection.
By Kevin McManus