Hepatitis B Vaccine

What does the hepatitis B vaccine do?
The hepatitis B vaccine can prevent hepatitis B.

How many doses of the hepatitis B vaccine are recommended?
For the most beneficial vaccination against hepatitis B, all shots in a series are needed. The number of doses is dependent on the type of hepatitis B vaccine administered.

What kind of hepatitis B vaccines are available?
There are different types of hepatitis B vaccines, including a 3 dose series, a 2 dose series, and a combination vaccination.

The 3 dose series vaccination includes 3 intramuscular injections, where the second and third doses are administered at 1 and 6 months, respectively, after the first dose.

The 2 dose series, Heplisav-B (HepB-CpG), has been approved for two doses, 1 month apart.

The combination vaccine, called Twinrix, is approved for adults, and protects people from both hepatitis A and hepatitis B. The combined hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccine is usually given as three separate doses over a 6-month period.

How long is the hepatitis B vaccine effective?
All shots in the series are recommended to be fully protected. Immunity lasts for up to 30 years after the vaccination regimen is complete. Since the hepatitis B vaccine was introduced in the mid 90’s new infections have dropped sharply.

Who can get the hepatitis B vaccine?
The hepatitis B vaccine is available for all age groups. The vaccine is recommended for all infants and all adolescents younger than 19 years of age who have not been vaccinated. The vaccine is also recommended for adults aged 19 through 59 years and adults aged 60 years and older with risk factors for hepatitis B. Even adults who are 60 years and older without known risk factors for hepatitis B may get vaccinated.

Is the hepatitis B vaccine safe?
Yes, the hepatitis B vaccine is safe. However, as with any medicine, there is a slight risk of serious complications.

Who should not get the hepatitis B vaccine?
Individuals who have had a serious allergic reaction to a prior dose of hepatitis B vaccine, are allergic to any part of the hepatitis B vaccine or yeast should not get the hepatitis B vaccine.

What are the symptoms of a severe allergic reaction to the hepatitis B vaccine?

• Hives

• Swelling of the face and throat

• Difficulty breathing

• Fast heartbeat

If such reactions occur, call 9-1-1 and get the person to the nearest hospital, as this can be life threatening. 

Does the hepatitis B vaccine have side effects?

• Soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was injected

• Headache

• Fever

Where are hepatitis B vaccines administered?

Speak with your health-care provider or contact your local public health department, where free or low-cost vaccines for adults may be offered. Use the NACCHO Directory of Local Health Departments to search for local health departments in your area.

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