This Library Guide is a collection of useful documents & evidence on the safety, efficacy, effectiveness and impact of the Hepatitis B Birth dose vaccine to support NITAG members and other policy makers throughout Africa with making evidence-based recommendations.
This LibGuide has been compiled by Susanne Noll. Please email susanne.noll@uct.ac.za for any queries or to request the full text of articles marked 'Not OA' - not open access.
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver, caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can lead to acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) liver disease, ranging from mild illness to serious conditions like cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.
Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, or other body fluids, such as:
Unprotected sex with an infected person
Sharing needles (e.g., during drug use)
From mother to baby at birth
Accidental needle sticks (especially in healthcare)
Sharing razors or toothbrushes with an infected person
Hepatitis B vaccine: Safe and highly effective, usually given as a series of 3-4 shots starting at birth.
Safe sex practices
Avoid sharing needles or personal hygiene items
Screening of blood products
The Hepatitis B birth dose is the first dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine, given to newborns within 24 hours of birth.
To prevent mother-to-child transmission of Hepatitis B.
Especially important if the mother is HBV-positive (infected).
Given intramuscularly, usually in the thigh.
Safe and effective.
Followed by 2–3 more doses in infancy for full protection.
Infants infected at birth have a 90% chance of developing chronic Hepatitis B.
Early vaccination greatly reduces this risk.
