Hepatitis B Vaccine

The Hepatitis B vaccine is a vaccine that protects against Hepatitis B, a viral infection that affects the liver. The vaccine is made from parts of the Hepatitis B virus and is very effective at preventing the infection.

Route of Administration:

The Hepatitis B vaccine is given as an injection into the muscle, typically in the upper arm for adults and older children or the thigh for infants. In some cases, a healthcare provider may administer the vaccine subcutaneously (just under the skin) instead of intramuscularly.

Vaccine Schedule:

The Hepatitis B vaccine is typically given as a series of three or four shots, depending on the specific vaccine used. The recommended schedule for the Hepatitis B vaccine varies depending on the age at which the vaccine is started and the specific vaccine used. The following is a general guideline for the Hepatitis B vaccine schedule:

Infants: The first dose of the vaccine is given at birth, followed by a second dose at 1-2 months of age and a third dose at 6-18 months of age.

Children and adolescents: The vaccine can be started at any age, but the number of doses and the timing of the vaccine may vary depending on the age at which the vaccine is started and the specific vaccine used. In general, the vaccine is given in a series of three doses over a period of 6 months.

Adults: The vaccine is typically given in a series of three doses over a period of 6 months. In certain situations, a more rapid schedule (e.g., 0, 1, and 2 months) or an alternative schedule (e.g., 0, 1, and 4 months) may be used.

It's important to complete the full vaccine series to ensure adequate protection against Hepatitis B. The vaccine is safe and well-tolerated, with mild side effects such as soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site being the most common. Serious side effects are rare.