Top 5 Takeaways

1. Expanded Vaccination Recommendation: The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) now recommends universal Hepatitis B (HepB) vaccination for all adults aged 19–59 years.
2. Removal of Risk Factor Screening: The new recommendation eliminates the need for risk factor screening and disclosure, aiming to increase vaccination coverage.
3. Current HepB Vaccination Coverage: As of 2018, HepB vaccination coverage among adults aged ≥19 years was only 30%, highlighting the need for improved vaccination strategies.
4. Safety and Efficacy: HepB vaccines, including the newly approved PreHevbrio, have demonstrated safety and efficacy, with no significant difference in adverse events compared to other vaccines.
5. Public Health Impact: Universal vaccination is expected to reduce the incidence of hepatitis B, particularly among adults aged 19–59 years, and address racial and ethnic disparities in HBV infection rates.

Original Article Author and Citation

Corresponding Author

Mark K. Weng, mweng@cdc.gov

Suggested Citation

Weng MK, Doshani M, Khan MA, et al. Universal Hepatitis B Vaccination in Adults Aged 19–59 Years: Updated Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2022. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2022;71:477–483. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7113a1

Summary

The ACIP has updated its recommendations to include universal HepB vaccination for all adults aged 19–59 years. This change aims to improve vaccination coverage by removing the need for risk factor screening, which has previously hindered vaccination rates. The recommendation is based on extensive review and analysis of scientific evidence, demonstrating the safety and efficacy of HepB vaccines.

Methods

From September 2019 to October 2021, the ACIP Hepatitis Work Group conducted monthly reviews of scientific evidence regarding universal adult HepB vaccination. The group used a systematic review of literature and the GRADE approach to assess the certainty of evidence for U.S.-licensed HepB vaccines. Additionally, the group evaluated the seroprotection and safety of the newly approved PreHevbrio vaccine.

Discussion

The recommendation for universal HepB vaccination is expected to increase vaccination coverage and reduce hepatitis B cases. The removal of risk factor screening addresses barriers such as patient nondisclosure and inadequate time for risk assessment by healthcare providers. Universal vaccination also aims to reduce racial and ethnic disparities in HBV infection rates.

Conclusion

The updated ACIP recommendation for universal HepB vaccination in adults aged 19–59 years is a significant step towards improving public health outcomes. By eliminating the need for risk factor screening, the recommendation aims to increase vaccination coverage and reduce the incidence of hepatitis B, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.

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