DiseaseHepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and is a worldwide public health problem. Approximately 350 million people are believed to be chronic carriers of HBV
TransmissionHepatitis B is highly infectious and virus can survive outside the body for 7 days and still remain infectious. It is an important occupational health hazard for unvaccinated healthcare workers.
Vaccine schedule| Age | Primary Schedule | Booster |
|---|---|---|
| 16 years + | 3 –4 doses at Day 0,7, 21 + 1 year * | 5 years (after primary schedule) |
* Full protection not given until final dose at 1 year. Will give adequate protection if leaving sooner.
| Age | Primary Schedule | Booster |
|---|---|---|
| 12 months – 16 years | 3 doses at 0,1 and 6 months** | 5 years (after primary schedule) |
** accelerated schedule can be given at 0,1,2 and 12 months (Full protection not given until final dose at 1 year. Will give adequate protection if leaving sooner)
| Age | Primary Schedule | Booster |
|---|---|---|
| 16 years + | 3 –4 doses at Day 0,7, 21 + 1 year * | Hepatitis A -25 years Hepatitis B – 5 years |
* Full protection not given until final dose at 1 year. Will give adequate protection if leaving sooner.
Epidemiology + Risk AreasHepatitis B virus is found worldwide but there are geographical regions where risk of transmission is higher.
MAP OF RISK AREAS Hep B
Clinical Aspects
Signs and symptoms