What is Hepatitis B?
It's a virus affecting the liver. If you get infected by this virus then your body will turn to be the lifelong carrier of hepatitis B. It can further complicate into cirrhosis; a liver disease, or liver cancer.
Vaccine Schedule
The hepatitis B vaccine or the HBV is given as series of three injections:
1. shortly after birth
2. when the child is 1-2 months of age
3. when the child is 6-18 months of age
If the mother is infected with hepatitis B virus, then the baby must be given the vaccine within 12 hours of birth. The baby must also be given a shot of hepatitis B immune globulin i.e. HBIG which will give instant protection from the virus.
Why Your Child Needs This Vaccine?
Hepatitis B vaccine will create a long-term immunity thereby protecting your child from the Hepatitis B virus not just during infancy and childhood but during the adult years too. The vaccine even reduces the risk of cirrhosis of liver, and liver cancer.
Risk Associated with the Vaccine
This vaccine can possibly cause an allergic reaction, which is not a serious one. There have been very rare serious issues detected with this vaccine. Minor problems include mild fever, soreness or redness near the vaccinated area.
When not to give the vaccine
You should avoid or delay the immunization if:
1. Your child is sick. However; minor cold or illnesses shouldn't prevent the immunization
2. Your child had some severe allergic reaction post the previous dose of the vaccine
Child Care Post Vaccination
When the child is given the hepatitis B vaccine, it can result in mild fever or redness near the vaccinated area. Young infants shouldn't be given any medication as the mild symptoms would soon disappear. However, older babies can be given medicines after checking with the doctor.
Can HBV be given with other vaccines?
Yes, certainly. There is no harm if the hepatitis B vaccine is given with any other vaccine as there is no interference observed with the antibody response of other vaccines
When to seek medical help
You must check in with your doctor if your child has high fever or severe pain post the vaccination.