Hepatitis B immunization (vaccine)
Alternative names:
hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccine; vaccine - hepatitis
Information:
DEFINITION
An immunization to protect individuals from contracting hepatitis B, a serious disease causing inflammation and damage to the liver that may lead to cirrhosis of the liver, chronic liver disease, and liver cancer. About 300,000 children and adults become infected with hepatitis B each year. Over 10,000 of them need to be hospitalized and 250 die, usually of acute liver failure.
In addition, over 7,000 deaths in the U.S. per year are attributed to conditions related to chronic infection with the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). Approximately 5 to 10% of adults infected with HBV become carriers and have lifelong infection. Infants and children who become infected with HBV are much more likely (up to 90%) to have lifelong infection and carrier states.
VACCINE INFORMATION
The hepatitis B vaccine is one of the recommended childhood immunizations. Currently, most states do not have legislation related to HBV immunization
IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE
Hepatitis B vaccine is given as a series of three injections (shots). The first shot is given to infants shortly after birth.
If the mother of the infant carries HBV in her blood, the infant needs to receive the first shot within 12 hours after birth. Hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) is also given to the baby at that time. The next two shots are given according to the primary care provider's recommendations.+
If the mother of the infant does not have evidence of HBV in her blood, the infant may receive the shot anytime prior to leaving the hospital or it may be deferred until the 4- or 8-week visit to the primary care provider. If given shortly after birth, the second shot is given at 1 to 2 months and the third at 6 months. For infants who do not receive the first shot until 4 to 8 weeks, the second shot is given at 4 months and the third at 6 to 18 months. In either instance, the 2nd and 3rd shots are given in conjunction with other routine childhood immunizations.
BENEFITS
Babies who receive the HBV immunization series will be protected from contracting hepatitis B infection not only throughout childhood, when the risk of lifelong infection and carrier states is the highest, but also through their adult years. Eliminating the risk of HBV infections also decreases the risks for cirrhosis of the liver, chronic liver disease, and liver cancer. As more people become immune to HBV infection through immunization of infants, the goal of eliminating HBV infection in the United States may be realized.
RISKS
Most infants who receive the HBV vaccine experience no associated problems. Others may have minor problems, such as redness or tenderness at the injection site. Serious problems associated with receiving the immunization are rare.
DELAY OR DO NOT GIVE (CONTRAINDICATIONS)- If the child is ill with something more serious than a cold, immunizations should be delayed.
- If severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis occurs after an injection of the HBV vaccine, no further HBV immunization should be given to the child.
- There are no specific contraindications to the HBV vaccine for infants or young children.
POSTIMMUNIZATION SYMPTOMS AND CARE
Watch for and be familiar with how to treat minor side effects such as injection site tenderness or low grade fever.
CALL THE PRIMARY HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF- uncertain of your own HBV carrier state.
- uncertain if the hepatitis B vaccine should be delayed, withheld, or given (according to what schedule) to a specific infant.
- moderate or serious adverse effects appear after a HBV injection has been given.
- there are any questions or concerns related to the hepatitis B immunization.
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The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Copyright 2000 adam.com, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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