The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is reaffirming its recommendation that newborns receive the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine within the first day of birth. This follows recent changes to the vaccination schedule by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). DHS is advising Wisconsin health care providers to continue following this schedule, consistent with guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics and other major medical organizations.
Despite the new recommendations from ACIP, DHS is maintaining the long-standing vaccination protocol. Dr. Ryan Westergaard, DHS Chief Medical Officer, highlighted the extensive research supporting the current schedule, noting that decades of data back the administration of the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth and the routine three-dose series. He added that there is no new evidence supporting a change to this established recommendation.
According to DHS, hepatitis B can cause serious health issues, including liver disease and cancer, and is often underdiagnosed, with nearly half of those infected unaware of their condition. Newborns are especially vulnerable, as they can contract the virus even if prenatal tests are negative, and infection during infancy can lead to chronic disease in up to 90% of cases. The vaccine, which has been shown to be safe for over 30 years, has reduced infections in infants by 99%.
DHS has provided guidance to emphasize the importance of the hepatitis B vaccine amid recent changes. Dr. Westergaard, speaking on behalf of DHS, encouraged communication between families and health care providers to make informed decisions. He noted that while last week’s ACIP recommendations have caused some confusion, Wisconsin parents and providers are advised to continue following established scientific guidance regarding the vaccine.
Wisconsin’s school and child care vaccine mandates will remain unchanged following this announcement. Additionally, Wisconsin Medicaid will continue to cover the hepatitis B vaccine series for eligible members, including newborns. The Office of the Commissioner of Insurance has also reminded health insurers and plans that they are required to provide hepatitis B immunization at no cost for insured dependents, starting from birth.
