Dear Providers,
Today the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted to recommend that parents discuss benefits and risks with a health care provider when deciding if or when to give the hepatitis B vaccine to infants born to mothers who are not known to be infected with hepatitis B, and suggested to administer the initial dose no earlier than two months of age if not given at birth. Providers are already having discussions about vaccines with parents and caregivers. Recommendations by ACIP are not considered final until adopted by the CDC director, which has not occurred as of yet.
At this time, no impacts to vaccine availability or coverage are anticipated for VFC providers. We recognize that recent media coverage and public discussion may be creating confusion. To support consistent and accurate communication, NCDHHS is working closely with federal, state and local partners to ensure we continue to prioritize the health, safety and well-being of children, individuals and families in North Carolina. We will continue to monitor the immunization landscape and communicate any future updates, including finalization of today’s ACIP votes by the CDC director, as they become available.
Impacts of Delaying First Dose
The hepatitis B vaccine has been tested extensively for safety and efficacy for decades, and when administered within 24 hours of birth, is highly effective in preventing newborn infection. Delaying the vaccine or not completing the full series has no known safety benefits for children and will likely lead to more cases of hepatitis B in infants as it goes back on successful measures in place for more than 30 years that contributed to a significant decline in hepatitis cases. The current childhood vaccination schedule is supported by the American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, and other medical and health organizations.
Provider Communication Resources
For providers and staff who encounter questions or concerns about hepatitis B vaccination, a variety of evidence-based communication tools are available on our website. These resources include materials such as How to Talk to Parents About Vaccines (PDF), offer practical strategies to support effective, patient-centered discussions.
We appreciate your continued partnership and patience during this transition.
How to contact us:
For assistance, please contact the NCIP Help Desk by phone at 1.877.USE.NCIR (1-877-873-6247) or by email.
In Health,
NC Department of Health and Human Services
Update on ACIP Vote Regarding Hepatitis B Vaccination Recommendation
Today the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted to recommend that parents discuss benefits and risks with a health care provider when deciding if or when to give the hepatitis B vaccine to infants born to mothers who are not known to be infected with hepatitis B, and suggested to administer the initial dose no earlier than two months of age if not given at birth.
North Carolina Immunization Program
Dec 9, 2025