How many doses of the hepatitis B vaccine are required?
Oct 17, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Haiying
Introduction
The hepatitis B vaccine requires three doses. The vaccine should be administered at 0, 1, and 6 months during infancy and early childhood, for a total of three injections. The interval between the first and second dose is one month, and the interval between the second and third dose is five months. Hepatitis B vaccination should be administered promptly if all results of the hepatitis B panel test are negative or in newborns immediately after birth.
Generally, the hepatitis B vaccine requires three doses. The details are as follows:
The hepatitis B vaccine should be administered during infancy at 0, 1, and 6 months, for a total of three injections. The interval between the first and second dose is one month, and the interval between the second and third dose is five months. If all results of the hepatitis B panel (five-item test) are negative or for newborns immediately after birth, the hepatitis B vaccine should be administered promptly to prevent hepatitis B infection. Hepatitis B is a chronic infectious disease; vaccination effectively prevents transmission of the hepatitis B virus and reduces the incidence of hepatitis B. It is recommended to complete all three doses of the vaccine.
One month after completing the full course of hepatitis B vaccination, it is recommended to check the hepatitis B panel to determine whether antibodies have developed. A positive hepatitis B surface antibody indicates successful antibody production. Generally, immunity from the hepatitis B vaccine lasts 3–5 years, after which a booster dose is recommended. However, it is best to test for hepatitis B surface antibodies annually following vaccination. If the surface antibody becomes negative or its level declines, a booster dose should be given. Individuals with hepatitis or serious illnesses should not receive the hepatitis B vaccine. Adults who wish to receive the vaccine should undergo a medical examination at a hospital to rule out hepatitis B infection and abnormal liver enzymes before vaccination.
After vaccination, individuals should remain at the vaccination site for 30 minutes of observation to monitor for local reactions such as redness or swelling at the injection site, or allergic reactions to the vaccine. Bathing should be avoided within 24 hours after vaccination to prevent infection at the injection site. Adequate rest is advised, strenuous exercise should be avoided, and a light diet is recommended.
