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A recent study has confirmed that administering the hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccine to preterm babies does not increase their risk of developing chronic lung disease, specifically bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Conducted by the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI) and published in the Bulletin of the World Health Organization (WHO), the research provides new evidence to support existing immunization guidelines for newborns.
The study, the largest of its kind globally, involved 818 preterm babies born before 29 weeks gestation in Victoria, Australia. It found that babies who received the HBV vaccine shortly after birth had no higher incidence of BPD compared to those who did not receive the vaccine. The study revealed that 51% of vaccinated babies developed BPD, compared to 62% in the unvaccinated group.
BPD, a serious lung disease, is common among very premature infants and can lead to developmental and health challenges, including asthma, heart problems, and neurodevelopmental disabilities. The study is significant because concerns had previously been raised by some researchers about a possible link between the vaccine and an increased risk of BPD.
Hannah Morgan, a researcher at MCRI and lead author of the study, emphasized that the findings dispel such concerns. “This study identified no evidence of an increased risk of BPD in preterm infants who received the HBV vaccine compared to those who didn’t,” Morgan stated. “These findings are crucial in supporting the current recommendation to immunize all newborns against hepatitis B within 24 hours of birth.”
HBV, a major cause of liver disease, can be transmitted during pregnancy, putting newborns at risk of chronic infection. Early vaccination is considered the most effective preventive measure against HBV. Despite recommendations from WHO and Australian guidelines to vaccinate all newborns, including preterm infants, the vaccination rate among preterm babies varies across different regions.
The research utilized data from the Vaccine Safety Health Link, a system that connects immunization records with health outcomes across the state of Victoria. This innovative tool allowed researchers to analyze the health outcomes of preterm babies in a way that no previous study had done before, providing strong evidence that the HBV vaccine does not contribute to the development of BPD.
The results of this study are expected to influence neonatal care practices, making it easier for healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding vaccinations for preterm infants.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on the findings of a study published in the Bulletin of the World Health Organization in 2025. It is essential for healthcare providers and parents to consult with medical professionals for personalized guidance regarding vaccinations and the care of preterm infants.
For more details on the study, visit: H. J. Morgan et al, No evidence of increased risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia following birth dose hepatitis B vaccination in preterm infants – a large, linked cohort study, Bulletin of the World Health Organization (2025).
