After My Child Is Born

It is critical for your child to complete the hepatitis B vaccine series on time.  This will be more than 95% effective in protecting your newborn against HBV infection.

Time

Infant born to mother with HBV should receive

At birth

Birth dose of hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) within 12 hours of birth

1-2 months

2nd dose of hepatitis B vaccine

6 months

3rd dose of hepatitis B vaccine

9-18 months

HBsAg and anti-HBs* tests to confirm that your child is protected within 12 hours of birth

*The hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) blood test checks for protection against HBV

If your infant is preterm (less than 2,000 grams in weight) and you are HBsAg-positive, your infant should still receive the birth dose of the HBV vaccine and HBIG within 12 hours of birth.  The birth dose, however, should NOT be counted as part of the 3 doses received to complete the HBV vaccine series. 

Time

Preterm infant born to mother with HBV should receive

At birth

Birth dose of hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG)

First pediatrician’s visit

1st dose of hepatitis B vaccine

1 month after first pediatrician’s visit

2rd dose of hepatitis B vaccine

6 months after first pediatrician’s visit

3rd dose of hepatitis B vaccine

Make sure to have post-serologic testing performed at 9-18 months to make sure that your child has developed immunity to hepatitis B.

Breastfeeding is safe for your baby.  HBV is not transmitted through breast milk.