Hepatitis B

Vaccination and Prophylaxis

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for:

• Adults in one or more of the high risk groups
• Children 0 – 18 years of age
• Persons with compromised immune systems (e.g., HIV/AIDS)
• Persons with chronic liver disease or chronic hepatitis C
• Inmates of long-term correctional facilities

There are two types of products available for prophylaxis and the prevention of hepatitis B infection:

• Hepatitis B vaccine provides long-term protection against HBV infection, and is used for both pre-exposure and post-exposure prophylaxis. There are three doses of the vaccine; the second dose is given 1 month after the first, and the third dose is given 6 months after the first.
• Hepatitis B Immune Globulin (HBIG) provides temporary protection against the hepatitis B virus for 3 – 6 months, and is used only in certain post exposure settings.