NACI Recommends Hepatitis B Vaccination for All Infants in Canada

National Advisory Committee on Immunization Recommends Universal Infant Hepatitis B Shots

It is expected to promote health equity by ensuring that all children are protected during the period of greatest vulnerability to chronic infection, the National Advisory Committee on Immunization stated in its new guidance.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization now recommends that all infants receive vaccination against hepatitis B, cbc.ca reported. According to the advisory body, babies can be given the injection either in their first 24 hours of life or during their initial routine childhood immunization visit at age two months.

Provincial Disparities and Transition Timelines Across Canada

Babies in Canada get their tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis — also known as whooping cough — and polio vaccinations during that same two-month visit. Infant hepatitis B immunization is already provided by British Columbia, Alberta, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and all three territories, along with several other provinces.

In contrast, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland-Labrador do not vaccinate against the virus until children reach grades 6 or 7. The committee noted that it consulted with provinces to determine the feasibility of changing to a new, uniform schedule.

It will time for jurisdictions to transition towards optimal programs to offer immunization to all infants, the NACI guidance says. Continuing to offer vaccine to older children during the transition will ensure continued protection, and all of the Canadian HB vaccine programs have been shown to reduce disease since they were first introduced.

Infants Face High Risk of Chronic Infection

Hepatitis B is a virus that infects the liver and carries a high likelihood of becoming chronic in young children, particularly infants under one year old. Data from the Public Health Agency of Canada indicates that chronic hepatitis B left without treatment may result in liver cancer or cirrhosis.

The overall prevalence of hepatitis B in Canada remains low, estimated to be below two percent. However, rates climb higher among specific vulnerable populations, including individuals born outside of Canada in regions where hepatitis B is endemic. While pregnant women undergo routine screening for the infection, health providers note that gaps in care still exist.

Virus Spreads via Blood and Bodily Fluids

The virus spreads through blood and bodily fluids. According to the HIV and hepatitis information platform CATIE, supported by the Public Health Agency of Canada, transmission can occur during or after childbirth and through contact with items carrying traces of blood, such as nail ctuppers. Health authorities emphasize that the virus does not spread through casual contact like hugging, kissing, touching, or sharing utensils.

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