WHO position paper on hepatitis A vaccines - June 2012

Overview

Since the publication of the first WHO hepatitis A vaccine position paper in 2000, there have been changes in the epidemiological features of hepatitis A infection in several countries, increased supply of hepatitis A vaccines, and new evidence on their public health benefits. In addition, in 2010 the World Health Assembly adopted a resolution on viral hepatitis (WHA 63.18) mandating a comprehensive approach to hepatitis prevention and control.

The current document replaces the 2000 position paper on hepatitis A vaccines and incorporates the most recent developments in the field. Recommendations on the use of hepatitis A vaccines were discussed by SAGE at its meetings in November 2011 and April 2012.