Geneva (GNP): The World Health Organization (WHO) African Region has renewed its call for timely Hepatitis B vaccination, emphasizing that protecting children against the disease begins at birth.
Ahead of World Hepatitis Day, the organization highlighted that the Hepatitis B vaccine can provide up to 95% protection against infection when administered according to the recommended schedule.
WHO stressed that the first vaccine dose, given within the first 24 hours after birth, is one of the most effective ways to prevent newborns from contracting the virus.
The organization also encouraged parents and caregivers to ensure that children receive all three recommended doses of the vaccine for long term protection.
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can lead to serious health complications, including chronic liver disease, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
Infants infected at birth or during early childhood face a much higher risk of developing lifelong infection compared to adults. Because of this, vaccination during the earliest hours of life is considered a critical public health measure.
According to WHO, timely immunization significantly reduces the risk of mother-to-child transmission, which remains one of the leading causes of chronic Hepatitis B infection worldwide.
The organization noted that ensuring newborns receive the birth dose on time is essential to protecting future generations from preventable liver diseases.
The WHO African Region also highlighted that completing the full vaccination schedule strengthens immunity and provides long-term protection against the virus.
Health experts continue to encourage governments, healthcare providers, and communities to improve access to routine immunization services, particularly in areas where vaccination coverage remains low.The awareness campaign carries a simple but powerful message: “Protection starts at birth.”
Through educational materials and public outreach, WHO aims to increase understanding of the benefits of vaccination and encourage families to seek timely healthcare services for newborns.
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Health officials also emphasized that vaccines remain one of the safest and most effective public health interventions ever developed. In the case of Hepatitis B, vaccination not only prevents infection but also reduces the future burden of liver cancer and other life threatening complications associated with the disease.
As countries observe World Hepatitis Day, WHO called for stronger efforts to ensure every child has equal access to lifesaving vaccines.
Expanding immunization coverage, improving maternal and newborn healthcare services, and raising public awareness are key steps toward eliminating Hepatitis B as a public health threat. The organization further urged governments and healthcare partners to strengthen routine vaccination programs and ensure that health facilities are equipped to provide newborn immunization immediately after delivery.
Investing in immunization today, WHO noted, helps create healthier communities and reduces long-term healthcare costs. WHO concluded that every child deserves a healthy start in life, and timely vaccination remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to achieve that goal. By ensuring newborns receive the birth dose within 24 hours and complete the recommended vaccine schedule, families can help protect children from preventable disease and support global efforts to eliminate Hepatitis B.
The campaign serves as a reminder that prevention is far more effective than treatment. With continued commitment from governments, healthcare professionals, and communities, the goal of reducing Hepatitis B infections and protecting future generations is within reach. Vaccination at birth is not only a medical intervention but also an investment in healthier lives and stronger public health systems worldwide.
