Hepatitis A Vaccine (HepA)
HepA protects against hepatitis A (HAV), which causes fever, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice (high blood levels of bilirubin resulting in yellowing of the skin and eyes). HAV is more common in child care centers. HepA vaccination is recommended for children over 1 year of age and older children who are traveling to areas with high HAV infection.
Immunization schedule—HepA vaccine usually is administered in 2 doses, one at 12–23 months of age and the second dose 6 months after the first.
Hepatitis B Vaccine (HepB)
HepB protects against infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBV affects the liver and remains in the body for life and can lead to long-term health problems, such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. This vaccine often is administered at birth.
Immunization schedule—The HepB vaccine usually is administered as follows:
- Dose 1 within 12 hours of birth if mother is infected, otherwise, prior to leaving hospital
- Dose 2 at 1–4 months of age
- Dose 3 at 6–18 months of age
Physician-developed and -monitored.
Original Date of Publication: 28 Aug 2008
Reviewed by: Stanley J. Swierzewski, III, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 17 Jun 2008
© 1998-2010 Healthcommunities.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Test your Diabetes IQ
