Hepatitis B Vaccine Facts
Hepatitis B, a liver disease, can be manifested in an acute or chronic stage. A mild case of this illness may last only a few weeks, but a long-term or chronic infection can permanently damage the liver. The deciding factor is the function of the patient's immune system. The hepatitis B vaccine offers significant prevention with minimal side effects.
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Common Side Effects
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Headache, loss of appetite, mild fever, runny nose, sore throat, fatigue, or pain and swelling at the injection site may occur within 48 hours of receiving a hepatitis B vaccination.
Severe Side Effects
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Severe symptoms, including rash, hives, difficulty breathing, tightness in chest and any swelling of the lips, face, tongue or mouth, should be reported to a doctor immediately.
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Types of Vaccines
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The hepatitis B vaccine can be given alone or with vaccines for Haemophilus influenzea (Hib), Diphtheria-Tetanus-acellular Pertussis (DTaP) or hepatitis A (HAV).
High Risk Groups
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Anyone with more than one sex partner during a six-month period, particularly men having sex with men, intravenous drug users or healthcare personnel who are exposed to blood and bodily fluids, are at higher risk of contracting hepatitis B. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend that people in these groups be vaccinated for hepatitis B.
Recommendations for Vaccinations
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The CDC and the American Academy of Pediatricians recommends hepatitis B vaccinations for all newborns and children. The CDC also recommends the vaccinations for people in high-risk groups.
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