The Barriers to Neonatal Hepatitis B Vaccination in Israel: A Prospective Study

Area of Science:

• Neonatal immunology
• Public health
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Neonatal Hepatitis B vaccination faces increasing opposition in Israel.
• Understanding factors influencing vaccine hesitancy is crucial for public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify sociodemographic factors and attitudes linked to non-vaccination of newborns.
• To investigate the relationship between information sources and vaccine refusal.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, pair-matched, controlled trial in a tertiary hospital.
• Data collection on maternal sociodemographics, infant care, and knowledge of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination.
• Follow-up survey assessed postpartum vaccine catch-up rates.

Main Results:

• Mothers opting out were often educated, middle-class, multiparous women.
• Exclusive breastfeeding and rooming-in were more common in the non-vaccinated group.
• Increased information sources correlated significantly with non-vaccination; timing and necessity were common objections.

Conclusions:

• Multiple information sources are associated with decreased Hepatitis B vaccination rates in newborns.
• Medical encounters present opportunities for improved vaccine education and coverage.