The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has reaffirmed its recommendation for universal hepatitis B vaccination at birth. This guidance aligns with the evidence-based recommendations of the Illinois Immunization Advisory Committee (IL-IAC).
This action follows the enactment of Public Act 104-0439 (House Bill 767), signed into law by Governor JB Pritzker on December 2, 2025. The new law gives IDPH authority to issue vaccine guidance through the IL-IAC and continues efforts under the Statewide Vaccine Access Initiative, originally established by Executive Order 2025-04.
The updated guidance from IDPH includes several key points:
– Universal hepatitis B vaccination is recommended at birth to prevent infections in children.
– All infants should complete the hepatitis B vaccine series according to the schedule adopted by IDPH.
– Pregnant individuals should be screened for hepatitis B during their first trimester or at their initial prenatal visit. Those at high risk should also be screened upon admission for delivery.
– The department reaffirms its existing recommendations for flu, COVID-19, and RSV immunizations as previously issued on September 23, 2025.
– For other routine vaccinations, IDPH advises following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s immunization schedules as of August 7, 2025. These schedules are available on the Immunizations page of the IDPH website.
IDPH stated that these recommendations result from a thorough review of state and national data, consultation with national medical societies, and examination of practices in other states. The department’s guidance is consistent with those issued by organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and Infectious Diseases Society of America.
Director Sameer Vohra addressed concerns about federal vaccine guidance raised during a recent meeting of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). He said: “In response, IDPH, working closely with our IL-IAC, remains committed to providing credible, transparent, and science-based recommendations our Illinois providers and families can trust.”
Dr. Vohra emphasized the effectiveness of hepatitis B vaccination: “As a physician, I have seen firsthand the devastating impact of hepatitis B. This serious liver infection raises the risk of liver failure, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Fortunately, we have a powerful tool to prevent this illness – the hepatitis B vaccine. Since the universal birth dose was adopted in 1991, hepatitis B infections among U.S. children have dropped by 99 percent.”
He also acknowledged parental concerns: “As both a pediatrician and a parent… it is only natural for us to have questions. As your state health agency… it is our responsibility to explain and provide you with the best guidance supported by the most up-to-date information and data.”
Additionally, Dr. Vohra noted that IDPH has launched the Illinois Vaccine Access Program (IVAP), which allows local health departments to order certain vaccines at no cost for residents who may lack access. He clarified that this program does not alter current vaccination recommendations.
Dr. Vohra concluded: “Today’s hepatitis B guidance is just part of our ongoing effort… to ensure that all Illinoisans have uninterrupted access to the immunizations that protect them… We stand ready to support you – health care providers, public health partners, and all who care about the wellbeing of Illinoisans – to ensure you have the tools and information you need to protect your health today and prepare you for tomorrow.”
