The
hepatitis B vaccine protects against infection with the
hepatitis B virus. Everyone who is under 18 years of age should get
hepatitis B vaccine. Unimmunized children younger than 18 years may begin the series at any age. Adults should get the
hepatitis B vaccine if they are at risk for infection.
Indications for use- Dialysis nurses
- Dialysis patients
- Health care workers
- Infants with hepatitis B infected mothers
- Institutionalized patients
- Intravenous drug users
- Male homosexuals.
- Sexually promiscuous persons
- Geographical area; your risk is also higher if your parents were born in:
- Southeast Asia
- Africa
- Amazon Basin in South America
- Pacific Islands
- Middle East
Those who have had a serious reaction to baker's yeast in the past should not receive this vaccine.
AdministrationComplete immunity to
hepatitis B virus will require the administration of three boosters:
- In most cases the first booster may administered anywhere from birth to through the second month of life. Infants born to hepatitis B infected mothers should receive vaccine and 0.5 mL of hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) within 12 hours of birth at separate sites.
- The second booster should be administered at least one month after the first dose. Infants born to hepatitis B infected mothers should receive the second dose at least one month after the first dose.
- The third booster should be given at least 2 months after the second, but not before six months of age. Infants born to hepatitis B infected mothers should receive their third dose at least four months after the first and two months after the second, but not before 6 months of age.
- Illness may require a shot to be delayed. Only your doctor can make this determination.
Side EffectsMild problems:
- Soreness at the vaccination site (1 out of 11 children)
- Mild to moderate fever ( 1 out of 14 children)
Severe problems:
Severe
allergic reactions to HIB are very rare. Signs of a serious
allergic reaction can include:
