Thailand Reaffirms Universal Hepatitis B Vaccination for All Newborns, DDC Confirms

Thailand’s Department of Disease Control (DDC) has reaffirmed that the country will continue administering the hepatitis B vaccine to all newborns, in line with resolutions of the Subcommittee on Immunization Practices. The DDC emphasized that administering the first dose within 24 hours after birth remains a key measure to effectively reduce the long-term risk of liver cancer.

 

 

On December 15, 2025, Dr. Montien Kanasawad., Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, addressed public confusion following reports on social media claiming that the United States had revised its recommendation on hepatitis B vaccination, limiting it only to newborns of mothers who test positive for the virus or whose infection status is unknown. He clarified that such policy changes are specific to the United States and do not affect Thailand’s public health policy.

Dr. Montien stated that Thailand’s hepatitis B vaccination policy remains unchanged and continues to prioritize universal protection for newborns.

 

 

Meanwhile,  Dr Direk Khampaen, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, added that Thailand continues to adhere to the resolution of the Subcommittee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) under the National Vaccine Committee. The policy clearly stipulates that all newborns must receive the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth, and that this vaccination remains a guaranteed benefit under Thailand’s universal health coverage system for all Thai children.

He emphasized that immediate vaccination after birth is the most effective method to prevent hepatitis B infection, significantly reducing the risk of chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer in the long term.

The Department of Disease Control reiterated its commitment to maintaining high immunization coverage to protect children’s health and prevent serious liver-related diseases nationwide.

 

Source: Department of Disease Control