The hepatitis B vaccine protects your child against the hepatitis B virus, which can lead to liver damage and, in severe cases, death.
Hepatitis B is generally considered an adult disease because it is transmitted through the blood of infected individuals, often through unsafe sex or IV drug use with a shared needle. Many people who are infected do not know it and do not show symptoms for many years.
Children can be exposed to hepatitis B at birth or from close contact with others who are infected. Transmission can occur by sharing a razor, a toothbrush or even a washcloth. That’s why many pediatricians recommend that your baby receive the hepatitis B vaccine in the hospital shortly after birth.
The hepatitis B vaccine was introduced in 1981 and became part of the recommended immunization schedule in the United States in 1991. It includes a series of three shots, one of which is given at birth. The other two vaccinations are given at your baby’s two-month and six-month pediatric checkups.
You will typically be screened for hepatitis B during your pregnancy. If you test positive, your baby should get an injection of hepatitis B immune globulin as well as the hepatitis B vaccine to provide short-term protection within 12 hours of birth.
Talk to you doctor if you have questions about newborn screenings and tests.
When it comes to health care for you and your family, UPMC is here. It's easy to find the right doctor, health screenings, programs, classes, and more.
Contact UPMC in central Pa.Your health information, right at your fingertips. Select MyUPMC to access your UPMC health information. For patients of UPMC-affiliated doctors in Central Pa, select UPMC Central Pa Portal. Patients of UPMC Cole should select the UPMC Cole Connect Patient Portal.
The portal for all UPMC patients EXCEPT those in Central Pa.
The portal for UPMC patients in Central Pa.
The portal for UPMC Cole patients receiving inpatient care.
