Maine Immunization Program Weekly Update - December 12, 2025

Maine Department of Health & Human Services sent this bulletin at 12/12/2025 03:26 PM EST
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Maine Immunization Program

Weekly Update 

December 12, 2025

Maine CDC Recommendations for Hepatitis B Immunization

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services’ Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) continues to recommend all newborns receive a first dose of hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of delivery and complete a three-dose series by age 18 months. The Maine CDC’s guidance for hepatitis B vaccination practices is based on the evidence-based recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Medical Association (AMA), and American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Vaccination remains the best defense against hepatitis B.

Advisory (PDF)

Data Loggers

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Thank you to everyone who joined yesterday's Lunch & Learn on Digital Data Loggers. During this session, we reviewed back-up rollout plans, proper use of the back-up data loggers, easy calibration requirements, and available resources and support, followed by a Q&A. The recording is available on YouTube. 

Resources from the webinar:

MIP Back-Up Digital Data Logger Plan

Digital Data Logger FAQ & Survey Questions

Vaccine Holiday Shipping Calendar

Please be aware that orders placed after Friday, December 12 may not arrive until January 5 or later.

It is recommended that providers maintain a minimum of 4 weeks of inventory to prevent outages if orders are delayed due to weather and/or carrier interruptions. 

Vaccine Holiday Shipping Calendar

AAP Releases New Fact Checked Resources Addressing Common Vaccine Misconceptions

misconceptions

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released two new resources in its Fact Checked series to help address common vaccine misconceptions:

Each resource in the series includes key facts, an evidence snapshot, background on why this topic matters, and quotes from experts.

“What If You Don’t Vaccinate Your Child?” Handout

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Immunize.org updated its handout for parents, What If You Don’t Vaccinate Your Child?

This 1-page document describes the consequences of not vaccinating. Changes include updated references, hyperlinks, and disease statistics, along with the addition of Immunize​.org's LetsGetRealAboutVaccines.org website.

Don’t wait on influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 vaccinations

flu

Respiratory virus season is underway in the United States. While overall activity is low, it is gradually increasing. Holiday gatherings and indoor activities can provide plenty of opportunities for virus transmission.

Nationally, for the week ending December 5:

  • Seasonal influenza activity is increasing with the largest rise among children and young adults, particularly in northeastern and mountain west areas.
  • RSV activity in many southeastern, southern, and mid-Atlantic states is increasing.
  • COVID-19 activity is low.

Staying up to date on recommended vaccines helps protect individuals, families and communities - especially older adults, young children, and people with certain health conditions. It's not too late to be vaccinated against the circulating respiratory viruses. Protect yourself and your family!