why do babies need hep b vaccine

Babies need the Hepatitis B vaccine because they are at high risk of acquiring the infection at birth or shortly after, which can lead to severe lifelong health problems. The vaccine protects newborns from potential exposure to the virus during delivery and prevents chronic hepatitis B, which can cause liver damage, liver cancer, and death. Infants infected at birth have a 90% chance of developing chronic hepatitis B, and 25% of those with chronic infection may die from its complications. The vaccine is given soon after birth to teach the baby’s immune system to fight the virus effectively and provide early protection, even if the mother is unaware she is infected or the baby is exposed later from others. The vaccine series results in over 95% immunity, protecting children throughout life.