In 1982, the first hepatitis B vaccine was introduced in the United States. That year, the first official recommendations were issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The aim was to immunize children and adults who were at a high risk of contracting the hepatitis B virus. Since 1991, the hepatitis B vaccine has been part of the routine childhood immunization schedule. Most states require that children entering day care and school must be vaccinated against hepatitis B.
Early Childhood Immunization
Newborns receive the first hepatitis B vaccine dose at birth. The vaccine is given before the infant leaves the hospital. The second dose is given four weeks later, but no later than eight weeks. The third dose is given at six months, and the three doses should be given before the child is 18-months old. The consent of the infant's parent or guardian is required before immunization. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has an immunization schedule for children who have not been vaccinated beginning at birth. A four-week period is required between the administration of the first and second dose. An eight-week period is required between giving the second and third dose. An interval of 16 weeks is recommended between giving the first dose and the third dose. This schedule applies to children ages four months to 18 years old.
Adult Immunization
The CDC has specific recommendation for adults and the hepatitis B vaccine. Individuals who have multiple sexual partners, or live with a person infected with the hepatitis B virus, sexually active homosexual men and those infected with HIV should be immunized. Other high-risk adults include health care workers who have contact with human blood, or care for patients who are at risk for having hepatitis B. It is advisable that people with chronic liver disease, those who receive dialysis, those who live or travel to countries with a high incidence of hepatitis B, or those who inject drugs, be vaccinated as well. Adults receive two doses of the vaccine, which is formulated for adults. There is a four-week interval between getting the first and second dose.
Recommendations Against the Vaccine
Individuals who are allergic to baker's yeast or any of the components in the vaccine are advised not to receive this vaccine. The second dose will not be given if the person had a life threatening allergic reaction to the first dose. Immunization is postponed in the event of serious illness.
