Universal Infant Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Vaccination for 35 Years: Moving Toward the Eradication of HBV

A universal hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination program has been implemented in Taiwan since 1984. A total of 1611 individuals in Taipei were enrolled to monitor long-term efficacy. The prevalences of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis B core antibody in the vaccinated birth cohort were lower than in those born before 1984 (0.4% vs 7.7%, and 2.2% vs 50.8%, respectively; P < .0001). Three vaccine-failure carriers all were born to HBsAg-carrier mothers, probably due to no antiviral intervention during pregnancy. Occult HBV infection was rare in the postvaccination era. High vaccination coverage, comprehensive HBV screening, and antiviral agents for pregnant mothers will be essential to eliminate HBV transmission. Universal hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination effectively prevented chronic HBV infection. High vaccination coverage, comprehensive screening, and antiviral agents for pregnant mothers are essential to eliminate its perinatal transmission and for future elimination.