Who are the target groups for hepatitis B vaccination?

The target population for hepatitis B vaccination generally includes newborns, uninfected and non-immune adolescents, individuals in high-risk occupations, patients undergoing blood dialysis, and those with compromised immune systems. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Newborns: The first dose of hepatitis B vaccine should be administered within 24 hours after birth, followed by completion of the three-dose series according to the 0, 1, 6-month schedule. Since the newborn's immune system is not yet fully developed, timely vaccination effectively blocks mother-to-child transmission and reduces the risk of chronic infection.

2. Uninfected and non-immune adolescents: School-aged children and adolescents who have not completed the full vaccination course or whose antibody levels are insufficient should receive catch-up vaccinations. As social activities increase during this stage, so does the risk of infection with age. Catch-up vaccination helps establish long-term immunity.

3. High-risk occupational groups: Healthcare workers, laboratory personnel, public security and judicial staff may be exposed to the hepatitis B virus through their work and should therefore be vaccinated to prevent infection. Prior to vaccination, hepatitis B surface antibody testing should be performed; those who test negative should complete the full vaccination series.

4. Patients undergoing blood dialysis: Individuals receiving long-term hemodialysis often have weakened immune systems and frequent exposure to medical procedures, increasing their risk of infection. Vaccination can reduce the risk of developing hepatitis. Antibody levels should be monitored regularly after vaccination, and booster doses should be administered when necessary.

5. Immunocompromised individuals: People such as those living with HIV, organ transplant recipients, and those on long-term immunosuppressive therapy have reduced immune responsiveness. They should have their need for and safety of vaccination assessed under medical guidance. Some may require higher vaccine doses or more frequent administration.

Before vaccination, individuals should inform their healthcare provider about their health status and history of allergies. After vaccination, they should remain under observation for 30 minutes. Any unusual reactions—such as fever or local redness and swelling—should be evaluated promptly by a physician. Antibody levels should be tested periodically after completing the full vaccination series to ensure sustained and effective immunity.