Hepatitis B Vaccine
The Hepatitis B vaccine is a recombinant DNA vaccine that provides immunity against the hepatitis B virus (HBV), crucial for preventing chronic infection and hepatocellular carcinoma.
1. Vaccine Profile
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Recombinant subunit vaccine (HBsAg). |
| Route | Intramuscular (Anterolateral thigh in infants). |
| Schedule | Birth dose, followed by 6, 10, 14 weeks (or similar EPI schedule). |
2. Clinical Pearls
- Birth Dose: Administration within 24 hours of birth is highly effective at preventing vertical (mother-to-child) transmission.
- High-Risk Infants: If the mother is HBsAg positive, infants must receive both the Hepatitis B vaccine and Hepatitis B Immunoglobulin (HBIG) within 12 hours of birth.
- Storage: The vaccine should be stored at 2–8°C; it is sensitive to freezing.
NEET PG Hint: Remember the Shake Test is used to determine if the hepatitis B vaccine has been damaged by freezing. If the precipitate settles at the bottom of the vial and the supernatant is clear after shaking, it has been frozen and is ruined. Always prioritize the timely birth dose to interrupt transmission chains.