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.