Babies get the hepatitis B (Hep B) vaccine primarily to protect them from a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. This vaccine is given soon after birth because infants infected at birth have about a 90% chance of developing chronic hepatitis B, which can lead to severe liver disease, including cirrhosis and liver cancer, later in life. Vaccinating newborns provides early protection against infection both from their mothers and other sources, since some adults may unknowingly carry and transmit the virus. The vaccine typically creates long-term immunity, protecting children well beyond childhood into adulthood.
Why Newborns Are Vaccinated
- Newborns can acquire hepatitis B during childbirth if the mother is infected. This perinatal transmission leads to a very high risk (about 90%) of chronic infection.
- Children infected early have a high risk of serious liver complications and death later in life.
- Some infants can also get infected from casual contact with infected individuals who might not know they carry the virus.
- Early vaccination within 24 hours of birth significantly reduces these risks and is highly effective at preventing infection.
Health Benefits of the Vaccine
- Provides protection against liver infection, which can be symptomless or severe.
- Prevents chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer that may develop decades after infection.
- Helps reduce the spread of hepatitis B virus in the community by minimizing the pool of infected individuals.
Vaccination Schedule
- The first dose is given within 12 to 24 hours of birth.
- Follow-up doses are given at 1–2 months and 6–18 months of age.
- If the mother is infected, the baby may also receive hepatitis B immune globulin for immediate protection.
Safety
- The vaccine contains an inactivated virus and cannot cause hepatitis B.
- Side effects are generally mild, including soreness at the injection site and mild fever.
In summary, giving the hepatitis B vaccine to babies shortly after birth is a critical preventive measure to protect their lifelong health by preventing serious, chronic liver disease and reducing transmission risks from infected mothers and others.
