Completion of Hepatitis B Vaccination Series by 18 Months in Infants Who Did Not Receive a Birth Dose
Overview
This study evaluates hepatitis B vaccination completion rates in infants who did not receive a birth dose, revealing a significant decline in series completion from 2014 to 2023. It highlights disparities in vaccination rates based on race, ethnicity, and language among this population.
Background
Hepatitis B vaccination at birth is crucial for ensuring high coverage rates and preventing long-term health complications associated with the virus. Recent changes in federal recommendations regarding the birth dose necessitate an understanding of their impact on vaccination completion rates. This study provides insights into the longitudinal trends of hepatitis B vaccination among infants, emphasizing the importance of timely immunization.
Data Highlights
Group
3-Dose Coverage
Year
Received Birth Dose
97.6%
2014-2023
Did Not Receive Birth Dose
73.2%
2014
Did Not Receive Birth Dose
55.3%
2023
Key Findings
87.1% of the cohort was fully vaccinated by 18 months.
81.2% of children received a hepatitis B birth dose.
3-dose coverage among those who received a birth dose remained above 97% across birth years.
3-dose coverage for children without a birth dose declined from 73.2% in 2014 to 55.3% in 2023.
Children of Asian and Middle Eastern or North African descent had higher completion rates compared to White children.
Language preference influenced vaccination rates, with lower coverage among English speakers.
Clinical Implications
Healthcare providers should prioritize administering the hepatitis B birth dose to improve vaccination completion rates. Awareness of disparities in vaccination coverage can guide targeted interventions to enhance communication and education about hepatitis B vaccines among diverse populations.
Conclusion
The findings underscore the critical need for timely hepatitis B vaccination at birth to ensure high completion rates and address disparities among different demographic groups. Ongoing monitoring and tailored strategies are essential to improve vaccination uptake.
by Joshua T. B. Williams, Hannah Cruz, Amy Stein, Kristin Breslin, Michaela Brtnikova, Bradley Crane, Stephanie A. Irving, Sungching Glenn, Tat’Yana Kenigsberg, Bruno Lewin, Sara Tartof, Maria E. Sundaram, Sharon Fuller, Teresa Schmidt, Sean O’Leary, Daniela Canedo, Jason M. Glanz, Malini DeSilva, Candace C. Fuller, Ousseny Zerbo, Simon J. Hambidge
