Vaccination Guidelines for Hepatitis B: Detailing Doses and Appropriate Timing for Administration
The hepatitis B virus is a viral infection that can lead to serious complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. Thankfully, a vaccine is available to protect people from this virus.
Infants typically receive a 3-dose series of the hepatitis B vaccine, with the first dose given shortly after birth, often within 24 hours. If an infant did not receive the birth dose, the series should start as soon as possible. Infants born to mothers with hepatitis B should receive accurate doses of the hepatitis B vaccine and, if available, hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG).
For children (11 to 15 years old) who were not previously vaccinated, a 3-dose series is standard, with the first and second doses separated by at least 4 weeks, and the third dose 4 to 6 months after the second. Alternatively, a 2-dose schedule with Recombivax HB can be used, with the second dose 4 to 6 months after the first.
Adults (19 through 59 years) who have not been vaccinated generally receive a 3-dose series, with the first two doses separated by ≥4 weeks and the third dose given 4 to 6 months after the second. Options include 2-, 3-, or 4-dose schedules depending on the vaccine formulation used. For adults 60 years and older without known risk factors but requesting vaccination, a 3-dose series with dose spacing of 1 month between the first and second dose, and at least 2 months between the second and third dose (at least 4 months from the first dose to the third dose) is typically recommended.
Accelerated Hepatitis B vaccine schedules can be used in both adults and children under certain circumstances, particularly when rapid immunity is needed. For example, an accelerated 4-dose schedule is available for adults and children needing faster protection, such as travelers to endemic areas or those with exposure to hepatitis B. This schedule involves doses on days 0, 7, and 21 to 30, plus a booster dose at 12 months. If a vaccination series was interrupted, the schedule does not need to be restarted; missing doses can be given to complete the series without restarting from the beginning.
It is recommended that all infants receive the hepatitis B vaccine, which protects them from infection and the development of hepatitis B. The vaccine is safe for most people, but individuals should speak to a medical professional before getting the vaccine if they have had an allergic reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine or any component of a hepatitis B vaccine, have had an allergic reaction to yeast, or have had an allergic reaction to neomycin (Twinrix).
Many nations use a combination vaccine that protects against several diseases, including hepatitis B. People at a higher risk of contracting hepatitis B include those with chronic liver disease, people with HIV, sexually active people who are not in mutually monogamous relationships, people in a sexual relationship with someone who has hepatitis B, people who inject drugs, people who are at an increased risk due to exposure in their job, and people who travel to countries with high levels of hepatitis B.
The vaccine schedule for infants includes a 3-dose series of the hepatitis B vaccine, often administered within 24 hours after birth, and yes, it's crucial to ensure that all infants receive this vaccination for their health-and-wellness. For medical-conditions such as chronic liver disease, people with HIV, or sexually active individuals not in mutually monogamous relationships, a combined vaccine that protects against several diseases, including hepatitis B, is often recommended by science to mitigate their risk.
