HepB Birth Dose

Countries that have implemented both HepB-BD and HepB3 have achieved significant reductions in vertical transmission and new chronic infections. The hepatitis B birth dose is the most cost-effective strategy for preventing vertical HBV transmission. Regional HepB-BD coverage in sub-Saharan Africa stands at just 17%, and approximately 33 million newborns missed the timely birth dose in 2021. The three-dose infant schedule leaves a critical six-week window of vulnerability during which no vaccine protection exists, underscoring the need for a birth dose. Only 14 of 47 sub-Saharan African countries had incorporated a HepB-BD policy as of the study design date. All 47 sub-Saharan African countries have adopted the three-dose infant hepatitis B vaccine schedule administered at weeks 6, 10, and 14.