Media Release

FOR: Immediate Release
DATE: January 22, 1999
CONTACT: Patricia Raymond, RN 401-222-5921
Robert J. Marshall Jr., Ph.D. 401-222-1017

No Evidence of adverse reactions to Hepatitis B vaccine; Health Officials Caution Public about ABC’s 20/20 Segment

State and Federal public health officials express concern over the expected airing on ABC’s 20/20 of a segment alleging adverse events associated with hepatitis B vaccine.

Some points to keep in mind:

• The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends hepatitis B vaccine for everyone 18 years of age and younger, and for adults who are at risk for hepatitis B virus infection
• Hepatitis B vaccines are approved by the FDA. There is no confirmed scientific evidence indicating that hepatitis B vaccine can cause chronic illnesses such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or chronic fatigue syndrome.
• In 1998, Rhode Island health providers gave over 100,000 doses of hepatitis B vaccine to children under 18 with no reported adverse reactions connected to hepatitis B vaccine.
• The Vaccine Adverse Event Report System (VAERS; 1-800-822-7967) continuously monitors reports about vaccine use. Anyone experiencing a reaction or adverse health effect should contact their health care provider.

For more information about hepatitis B vaccine in Rhode Island, contact: Patricia Raymond, RN Immunization Program 401-222-5921 (M-F 8:30-4:30). Immunization Hot Line: 1-800-942-7434 (brief recorded message after hours).

Media who wish to speak with a CDC vaccine safety expert should contact: CDC Media Relations Divison 404-639-3286.

Additional information on hepatitis B vaccine safety is available on the CDC website:

www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/hepatitis/hepatitis.htm.

For speech or hearing impaired,
1-800-745-5555 (TTY)
Department of Health Website: www.health.state.ri.us