It said it has noted developments in the United States, where the Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices (ACIP) voted earlier this month to discontinue its universal recommendation for the hepatitis B birth dose.

However, Malaysia’s policy remains unchanged.

The ministry stressed that the birth dose would continue to be provided under the National Immunisation Programme, in line with World Health Organisation recommendations.

“The administration of the hepatitis B vaccine birth dose within 24 hours of birth is crucial to prevent transmission of the hepatitis B virus from mother to child.

“Hepatitis B infection acquired early in life carries a high risk of becoming chronic, which could lead to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer in adulthood.”

It also said Malaysia’s birth-dose policy, in place since 1989, has been highly effective in reducing infection rates among children and contributes to long-term population health protection.

It said national immunisation policies are determined based on scientific evidence, local and global epidemiological data and expert opinion.

Any policy changes would only be considered if supported by strong evidence and international consensus, it added.

“The Health Ministry would like to remind parents and caregivers to ensure their infants receive the birth dose according to the prescribed schedule.”

The US decision saw ACIP replace a long-standing universal approach with individualised decision-making for infants born to hepatitis B-negative mothers.

The revised recommendation was adopted by the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention on Dec 16, with infants who do not receive the birth dose advised to start vaccination at a later stage.

In a statement issued in conjunction with World Hepatitis Day, celebrated annually on July 28, Dr. Radzi emphasized the importance of preventive measures and treatment options. According to Dr Radzi, Hepatitis B can be prevented through immunisation, starting with the first dose at birth, followed by subsequent doses through the six-in-one combination vaccine at two, three, five, and 18 months of age. Specific treatments are now available to cure Hepatitis C, he added. He also highlighted the importance of collaboration among the government, private sector, and non-governmental organisations in providing immunisation services, screening, treatment, and advocacy.

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, usually caused by viral infections from Hepatitis A, B, C, D, or E viruses. While Hepatitis A and E are typically transmitted through contaminated food or water and do not usually lead to chronic disease, Hepatitis B, C, and D are spread through blood or bodily fluids and can result in chronic conditions such as liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Dr Radzi also referenced the 2024 Global Hepatitis Report, noting that in 2022, there were an estimated 2.2 million new cases of viral hepatitis worldwide. These included 1.1 million cases of Hepatitis B, 1.0 million of Hepatitis C, and 100,000 cases of other types of hepatitis infections. The report also recorded 1.3 million deaths, with 83% attributed to Hepatitis B and 17% to Hepatitis C.

The Health Ministry advises the public to maintain a healthy lifestyle and good personal hygiene to reduce the risk of contracting hepatitis. Individuals at high risk are encouraged to undergo screenings and seek treatment at healthcare facilities. Early detection and treatment can prevent severe liver disease, liver cancer, and potentially save lives.

He advised that if a child misses their Hepatitis B immunisation, parents should consult the nearest health clinic to reschedule the vaccination.