Increased Physician Awareness Is Needed to Implement Universal Hepatitis B Vaccination

To counter a rising incidence of acute hepatitis B, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) now recommends universal hepatitis B vaccination for adults 19 to 59 years of age. A national survey found that most family physicians are not aware of or have not fully implemented this recommendation. Targeted efforts by training institutions, medical systems, and physician organizations will be instrumental in raising awareness and curbing preventable disease.

Automated summary

In order to combat the increasing incidence of acute hepatitis B, ACIP now recommends universal hepatitis B vaccination for adults aged 19 to 59. However, a national survey found that most family physicians are unaware of or have not fully implemented this recommendation. Targeted efforts by training institutions, medical systems, and physician organizations will be crucial in raising awareness and preventing the disease.