Vaccination is the principal means for preventing hepatitis B virus infection. Hepatitis B (HepB) vaccines are safe and effective. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommendations include HepB vaccination of all adults aged 19-59 years, including pregnant persons. Pregnant persons may receive any HepB vaccine licensed for adults for which data are sufficient to evaluate vaccine-associated risks in pregnancy.
What is added by this report?
On September 11, 2024, the Food and Drug Administration approved updates to the package insert for Heplisav-B [HepB vaccine (recombinant), adjuvanted], Section 8.1 (Pregnancy) to include human data that do not suggest an increased risk for both major birth defects and miscarriage.
What are the implications for public health practice?
Providers can now administer Engerix-B, Heplisav-B, Recombivax HB, or Twinrix to pregnant persons needing HepB vaccination.