Hepatitis B is a disease that affects the liver and can cause a vast array of symptoms and complications. The most severe complications from Hepatitis B (known as chronic Hepatitis B) is liver failure, liver cancer, cirrhosis and of course, death. However, some people that have Hepatitis B only have symptoms that last a week or so (which is known as acute Hepatitis B). This disease has affected more than one-third of the world’s population and is considered one of the most rapidly spreading causes of death around the world.

For those not yet affected with Hepatitis B, fortunately, there is a proven line of defense against this devastating disease.

Introduced in 1982, the Hepatitis B vaccine became available in countries around the world. This vaccine was the first vaccine produced that prevented a major cancer. The effective rate of the Hepatitis B vaccine is approximately 95%, and has lowered the rate of mortality caused by this disease in children dramatically.

The Hepatitis B vaccine is composed of an active part of the virus. However, this vaccine will not cause patients to develop the disease. The part of the virus that is used for the vaccine causes the body to produce antibodies against the entire virus, and therefore the body will become immune to Hepatitis B if it is ever exposed.

The vaccine is usually given in a series of 3 or 4 injections. It is important that the person receiving the vaccine receives all of the injections as scheduled, otherwise the person will need to start the series over. The injections are usually given in the upper arm on adults and in the thigh on children. The area may become sore afterward, as that is typical of all injections.

Who should receive the vaccine?

It is suggested that everyone receive the Hepatitis B vaccine. Children, the elderly and those with low immune systems, however, should consider starting the series as soon as possible since they pose the greater risk of developing this disease. Other groups of people that also carry a greater risk of developing the disease are men that have sexual intercourse with other men, people that participate in illegal street drugs (particularly drugs that are injected), and people that work in an environment that exposes them to human blood and body fluids.

It should also be noted that there are a few people that should not receive the vaccine. These people include those that are allergic to baker’s yeast, people that have had an allergic reaction to any previous doses of the Hepatitis B vaccine, or someone that is ill during the time of the scheduled injection. If a person is ill at the time of the scheduled injection, they should reschedule until they are completely well.

In over 117 countries worldwide, the Hepatitis B vaccine is being offered at birth to all newborns. Parents have the choice to begin the vaccine within 24 hours of the birth of their child, and will need to continue the series with their pediatrician. Although the vaccine is a option given to new parents and is not required, most parents choose to have the vaccine administered to their newborn.

What are the risks?

Just like any other vaccine or procedure, there are risks. Although the Hepatitis B vaccine is considered very safe, it is important that all people receiving the vaccination know what could potentially occur.

The most commonly reported problems is soreness where the vaccine was administered and having a fever over 99.9F. These issues are minor and should not pose any concern.

A more serious problem that can occur is having an allergic reaction.  It should be noted that allergic reactions only happen in approximately 1 out of 1.1 million doses. However, if the person who received the vaccine believes they may be having one, they should seek medical attention immediately.