News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 4, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT: JP MARTIN
MOBILE: 480-521-4043
EMAIL: [email protected]

PHOENIX – The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) reminds parents and health care providers of the long-standing, evidence-based practice of administering  the hepatitis B vaccine to newborns within 24 hours of birth. Parents are encouraged to discuss any questions with their health care providers. 

“The universal hepatitis B birth dose is one of the simplest, safest, most powerful ways to protect Arizona babies from a liver infection that is completely preventable. The complications of infection can be devastating and last a lifetime,” said Dr. Joel Terriquez, Medical Director of the Bureau of Infectious Diseases Services and the Bureau of Immunization Services, Arizona Department of Health Services.

Since the United States recommended a universal hepatitis B birth dose in 1991, infections in children and adolescents have fallen by about 99 percent, preventing tens of thousands of cases of liver disease and death.

Arizona public health agencies work across several fronts to prevent hepatitis B:

  • Supporting the universal hepatitis B vaccine birth dose recommendation since 1991.
  • Recommending hepatitis B screening for pregnant patients and coordinating follow-up care for infants and close contacts.
  • Investigating reported hepatitis B cases and providing education on transmission and prevention.
  • Requiring blood banks and plasma centers to notify donors of test results suggest hepatitis B infection.
  • Monitoring vaccination coverage and hepatitis B trends through the Immunization Data Report (IDR) and publishing data through the ADHS Public Health Data Portal.

Parents should consult their health care provider about vaccine timing and ensure their child is up to date. 

The hepatitis B vaccine has been used for more than 40 years in the United States. It has a strong safety record, with the most common side effects limited to brief soreness where the shot is given. 

The Arizona Department of Health Services promotes and protects the health and wellness of Arizona’s residents through prevention, preparedness, and health partnerships. Learn more at https://www.azdhs.gov

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