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Hepatitis B (HBV) is a virus that infects the liver. It usually goes away on its own. But in some people, hepatitis B can cause long-term infection that can develop into serious liver problems, including cancer.
We can protect ourselves against hepatitis B with a vaccine. Here are the answers to some questions people commonly ask about the hepatitis B vaccine. If you are trying to decide if you or your child should get the vaccine, we hope these answers help you decide.
Highlights
How Does the Hepatitis B Vaccine Work?
The vaccine protects against the hepatitis B virus by making your body's immune system develop antibodies. The antibodies will protect you by fighting off the virus if you ever come in contact with it in the future.
The hepatitis B vaccine is given in a series of three shots. The first and second shot are given one month apart. The third shot is usually given six months after the first shot. If you miss your second or third shot, get it as soon as possible.
The vaccine has been very successful. In fact, the number of people who get HBV each year has dropped from 260,000 in the 1980s to 46,000 in 2006.
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Extra Protection
There is a vaccine for people at risk for hepatitis A, too. And there is a vaccine against both hepatitis A and B that can be used for people 18 and older. The combination vaccine reduces the total number of shots from 5 to 3. Ask your health care provider about your options. |
Should I Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine? Should My Child Get It?
Today, the hepatitis B vaccine is routinely given to infants and children up to 18 years of age. But adults who are at risk for getting HBV should also get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B is passed through an exchange of semen, vaginal fluids, blood, and urine by
- having sexual intercourse without a latex or female condom
- having oral sex without a condom or dental dam
- sharing needles and other "works" to inject drugs
- sharing personal hygiene utensils such as toothbrushes and razors
- getting accidentally pricked with contaminated needles in the course of health care
If you have done any of these things, talk to your health care provider about whether the hepatitis B vaccine is right for you.
How Safe Is the Hepatitis B Vaccine?
Studies show that the hepatitis B vaccine is safe for most people. It is safe enough to be routinely given to newborns and infants, as well as adults. The most common side effects are soreness, redness, swelling, or itching around the area where the shot is given. Some people get a mild fever. But these symptoms do not last long and go away on their own.
As with all vaccines, there is a very small risk of an allergic reaction. If you have dizziness, a fast heartbeat, high fever, hives, or weakness, call your health care provider right away. If you have difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately.
Can I Get Hepatitis from the Hepatitis B Vaccine?
No. There is no live virus in the vaccine, so it cannot give you an infection.
Can the Hepatitis B Vaccine Treat a Hepatitis Infection?
No. The hepatitis B vaccine only prevents new hepatitis B infections. It cannot treat hepatitis B if you already have it.
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Emergency Prevention
If you are exposed to the semen, vaginal fluids, blood, or urine of someone with hepatitis B and you have not already received the hepatitis B vaccine, see your health care provider right away. You can reduce your risk of infection by getting treatment within 14 days after being exposed. |
Where Can I Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine?
Many Planned Parenthood health centers offer the hepatitis B vaccine. You can also get it from other clinics, health departments, and private health care providers.
Published: 04.29.08 | Updated: 04.29.08
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