The hepatitis B virus is the infection that results in hepatitis B. Contact with blood or other bodily fluids from an infected individual might spread it.
If they aren’t immunised before birth, infants born to mums who have the hepatitis B virus (HBV) are at significant risk of contracting the disease. Unfortunately, infants who have a chronic HBV infection might develop additional, possibly fatal diseases such as cirrhosis (liver scarring), liver malignancy, and liver failure.
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What Is The Hepatitis B Vaccine Used For?
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The Hepatitis B vaccine aids in preventing the Hepatitis B virus from infecting people (HBV).
Direct contact with blood or other bodily fluids from an infected individual is the only way to contract hepatitis B, which can cause serious liver illness.
Sharing objects with an infected individual, including razors or toothbrushes, can potentially spread the disease. If the required vaccinations are not administered, a baby whose mother has the disease may contract it at delivery.
Jaundice (a yellowing of the skin or eyes), nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and joint pain are all typical Hepatitis B symptoms.
Hepatitis B Vaccine For Newborn: Is It Really Necessary?
All newborns should receive the hepatitis B vaccination, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
All children should receive three doses at the recommended intervals as part of the Singapore National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS). Infants should receive their first dosage at birth, and they should finish the series by 6 months of age, though occasionally it may take longer.
Giving your infant the shot at birth and finishing the entire series ensures that you won’t ever have to worry that your baby will contract the hepatitis B virus. The vaccination provides lifetime protection.
Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedule For Newborn
For the best defence against hepatitis B, doctors advise that your child receive all of the recommended doses of the vaccine. Inquire with your doctor about your child’s next vaccination schedule. Children typically receive one dose at each of the aforementioned ages:
- First dose: within 24 hours of birth
- Second dose: 1-2 months of age
- Third dose: 6-18 months of age
Depending on the vaccine brand the doctor uses or if your baby was underweight at birth, your child may need a fourth dose. All kids and teenagers up to age 18 who haven’t had the vaccination should do so.
A dose of the hepatitis B vaccination must be administered to newborns of hepatitis B-infected mothers within 24 hours of their birth, as well as additional doses at 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age and a final dose at age 1.
In addition to the hepatitis B vaccination, babies of mothers who were found to be particularly infectious by the blood test may additionally receive an injection of HBIG before birth to provide them with quick protection against infection.
At one year of age, the hepatitis B status of every child born to a mother who has the disease should be determined.
Hepatitis B Vaccine Newborn: Pros and Cons
Pros
The most effective method of preventing this potentially fatal infection is vaccination. To prevent hepatitis B infection, all newborns should receive the vaccine.
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This is due to the fact that the illness can linger in youngsters for a very long time and finally result in problems like liver cancer or liver scarring.
The hepatitis B vaccine is regarded as a fairly secure and reliable shot. The majority of vaccination varieties are even safe for expectant mothers because they are created using an inactivated (dead) virus.
Cons
What are some common Hepatitis B vaccine side effects?
- Following the shot, some patients could feel lightheaded. To avoid passing out, sit for 15 minutes.
- Swelling, bruising, and pain at the injection site. A cold compress can be applied to the affected area to provide comfort. Paracetamol is a safe medication to relieve the pain.
- Fever and a headache. Paracetamol can be used to treat a headache or fever. Note: Alway consult your child’s paediatrician before giving them any kind of medication.
- Tiredness, wooziness, and irritation. However, these adverse effects typically subside on their own.
What are the rare but serious side effects that require immediate medical attention?
One or more of the following are signs of a medication allergy:
- Swollen tongue, lips, eyes, and face
- Problems with breathing
- You have rashy, itchy skin all over your body.
In the event that you suffer any of these signs, you should contact a medical practitioner right away.
ALSO READ:
Child Vaccination 101: Your Top 6 Questions Answered by a Paediatrician
Hepatitis B Vaccine Booster
Hepatitis B Vaccine Booster Dose Schedule For Adults
- First dose: as soon as you are able
- Second dose: 1 month after the first dose
- Third dose: 6 months after the first dose
What to do if you forget a dose that’s scheduled?
Who Are Not Eligible For The Hepatitis B Vaccine?
- A prior dose of the hepatitis B vaccine caused a severe allergic reaction in you
- You’ve previously had hypersensitivity to yeast or any other ingredients in the HBV vaccine
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