Preventing neonatal hepatitis B infection during the perinatal period

In the United States, hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a growing problem with serious long-term consequences. Because previous vaccination programs have been ineffective in lowering the incidence of HBV, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control now recommend a comprehensive plan to reduce transmission of the virus. This article explores the epidemiology of HBV infection, the use of hepatitis B immune globulin and hepatitis B vaccines, and current recommendations for eliminating transmission of HBV during the perinatal period.