Why are newborns vaccinated against hepatitis B so early?
Quick Answer
Hepatitis B can spread from mother to baby during birth, and infection in infancy is much more likely to become chronic. Vaccinating at birth helps block that early transmission.
The Full Story
The first dose of hepatitis B vaccine is often given within 24 hours of birth in many countries, especially when there is any chance of exposure from the mother. This timing is crucial because babies infected at birth are far more likely than adults to become chronic carriers. Chronic hepatitis B can later lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Giving the vaccine immediately after birth, and sometimes combining it with hepatitis B immune globulin in high-risk situations, sharply lowers that risk. This policy has become a cornerstone of infant immunization worldwide.
Key Facts
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"Why give a hepatitis B shot at birth? Because timing can prevent a lifelong infection."
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