Critical Importance of Hepatitis B Vaccine 

Following international reports and political commentary questioning the efficacy and safety of the hepatitis B vaccine, the Hepatitis Foundation of New Zealand today reaffirmed its unwavering support for the country’s universal hepatitis B vaccination schedule which has been a cornerstone of New Zealand's public health for over 35 years.  

In 1989, following a world-first study into the efficacy of hepatitis B vaccine for children, led by the Foundation, New Zealand became the first sovereign nation to introduce universal hepatitis B vaccination for all children, and we continue to promote the universal vaccine as the best prevention of this dangerous virus.  

Hepatitis B is a contagious virus that causes damage to the liver. It is a major health issue in New Zealand, impacting an estimated 94,000 people. It is spread through blood and infected bodily fluids and can lead to serious liver disease, including cirrhosis (scarring) or liver cancer. Chronic hepatitis B occurs if the virus has been in the body for more than six months. It can also be transmitted from a mother who has hepatitis B to her baby during birth.  

Immunisation is your best protection against hepatitis B.   

• The hepatitis B vaccination is part of the National Immunisation Schedule and is safe and free for children under 16 years.  

• The vaccination is also freely available to household contacts and sexual partners of people living with hepatitis B.  

• For babies born to mothers with hepatitis B, a vaccine within 24 hours of birth is crucial to prevent mother-to-child transmission. Without this foundational step, these infants are 90% more likely to develop chronic hepatitis B, which can lead to liver cancer in up to 25% of cases.  

• The vaccine is also available for pregnant women who have hepatitis B to help protect their unborn baby.  

• See your GP for immunisations.  

Professor Ed Gane, Specialist Hepatologist, Deputy Director of the New Zealand Liver Unit at Auckland City Hospital and Foundation Trustee stated “Hepatitis B remains a public health threat globally, with over 250 million people living with the virus and leading to over 800,000 deaths annually. In New Zealand, it is a significant issue that impacts approximately 94,000 people and is a known cancer-causing virus for the liver. Māori, Pacific people and Asian people are disproportionately impacted by hepatitis B”  

“The Hepatitis B vaccine is a cornerstone of New Zealand's public health strategy, playing an indispensable role in safeguarding the nation's health. By preventing the Hepatitis B virus, the vaccine effectively eliminates the risk of developing a serious, lifelong chronic illness that can lead to severe liver damage, including cirrhosis and liver cancer,” he said.  

For New Zealanders, the vaccine is particularly vital due to its role in protecting our most vulnerable citizens. Through the universal childhood immunisation program, infants are vaccinated at 6 weeks, 3 months and 5 months old. This foundational step ensures that future generations are protected from a preventable disease.  

Beyond individual protection, widespread vaccination has a profound public health impact. It contributes to herd immunity, protecting those who cannot receive the vaccine and significantly reducing the overall prevalence of the virus in the community. This proactive approach not only saves lives and improves the quality of life for countless individuals but also reduces the long-term strain on our healthcare system and economy.  

In summary, the Hepatitis B vaccine is more than just an injection; it is a powerful tool for disease prevention, a protector of our most vulnerable, and a crucial investment in the long-term health and prosperity of all New Zealanders.