Why is it not recommended to receive a hepatitis B booster shot?
Nov 12, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
People with certain chronic diseases or immune system disorders may have an immune system that is unable to effectively respond to the immune stimulation from vaccines, leading to insufficient antibody production even after receiving booster shots. They may need to take medications such as vitamin A soft capsules, transfer factor oral solution, and thymopeptide enteric-coated tablets under a doctor's guidance to supplement vitamin A and regulate immune function.
Generally, a hepatitis B booster shot is an additional vaccination intended to enhance the level of hepatitis B antibodies in the body. Reasons for not recommending a booster shot include immune tolerance, allergic reactions, immunodeficiency, genetic susceptibility, and hepatitis B virus infection. The details are as follows:
1. Immune tolerance: Some individuals infected with hepatitis B virus or those who have been vaccinated but whose immune systems have not produced an effective response may have developed immune tolerance to the virus. In such cases, even with revaccination, the immune system cannot mount an effective response or elevate antibody levels. Administering a hepatitis B booster may not achieve the desired protective effect, so it is not recommended. Doctors may suggest regular monitoring of antibody levels and develop personalized preventive measures based on individual circumstances.
2. Allergic reaction: The hepatitis B vaccine contains certain components that may cause allergic reactions. Individuals with a history of allergies may experience symptoms such as rash, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the throat upon receiving the booster. Antiallergic medications such as loratadine tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride oral solution, or loratadine capsules may be used under medical guidance.
3. Immunodeficiency: Individuals with certain chronic diseases or immune system disorders may have immune systems that cannot effectively respond to the vaccine, resulting in insufficient antibody production after receiving a booster. Treatment with medications such as vitamin A softgel capsules, transfer factor oral solution, or thymopeptide enteric-coated tablets under a doctor's guidance may be needed to supplement vitamin A and regulate immunity.
4. Genetic susceptibility: Genetic factors may influence the body's susceptibility to hepatitis B virus, increasing the risk of infection. Even after vaccination, individuals with such genetic predispositions may not produce sufficient antibodies to protect against hepatitis B virus infection, making them more prone to infection. Antiviral medications such as oseltamivir phosphate capsules, ribavirin tablets, or peramivir injection may be prescribed under medical supervision.
5. Hepatitis B virus infection: Individuals with hepatitis B already have the virus in their bodies. In such cases, vaccination cannot stimulate the production of new antibodies and may instead trigger an immune response that worsens the condition. Antiviral medications such as entecavir tablets, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate tablets, or lamivudine tablets may be used under a doctor's guidance.
Before deciding whether a hepatitis B booster is needed, doctors will conduct a comprehensive evaluation based on the individual's health status, immune status, antibody levels, and other factors.
