Hepatitis B Vaccine-GeneVac-B®

Description

FAQs on GeneVac-B® (Hepatitis B Vaccine)

1. What is GeneVac-B® used for?

Answer: GeneVac-B® is used to prevent Hepatitis B infection. It is recommended for individuals who are at risk of exposure to the Hepatitis B virus (HBV), including healthcare workers, travelers, and newborns of infected mothers.

2. Who should get the GeneVac-B® vaccine?

Answer: The vaccine is recommended for all individuals, including infants, children, adolescents, and adults, particularly those at high risk of HBV infection, such as healthcare personnel, patients receiving frequent blood transfusions, and travelers to high-risk regions.

3. What is the recommended age for vaccination?

Answer: GeneVac-B® is recommended for individuals from birth onwards, including neonates, children, and adults.

4. How is GeneVac-B® administered?

Answer: The vaccine is given as an intramuscular injection, typically in the deltoid muscle for adults and children, and in the thigh for neonates and infants.

5. How many doses are required for complete protection?

Answer: The standard immunization schedule for GeneVac-B® includes three doses, given at 0, 1, and 6 months. An accelerated schedule may be recommended in certain cases based on the individual’s risk profile.

6. Is a booster dose required?

Answer: In healthy individuals who have completed the primary series, routine booster doses are generally not needed. However, specific populations, such as immunocompromised individuals, may require additional doses based on antibody levels.

7. What are the common side effects of GeneVac-B®?

Answer: Common side effects include mild pain and redness at the injection site, fever, fatigue, and headache. These reactions are usually temporary and resolve on their own.

8. Who should not receive the GeneVac-B® vaccine?

Answer: Individuals with known hypersensitivity to any component of the vaccine, including yeast proteins, should not receive GeneVac-B®. Consult with a healthcare provider for specific concerns.

9. Can GeneVac-B® be given to pregnant or breastfeeding women?

Answer: GeneVac-B® can be administered during pregnancy and breastfeeding, especially when there is a risk of exposure to Hepatitis B infection.

10. Can the vaccine be given with other vaccines?

Answer: Yes, GeneVac-B® can be given alongside other vaccines, but it should be administered at a separate injection site.

11. What is the recommended dose for neonates born to mothers with HBV?

Answer: Neonates born to HBV-infected mothers should receive GeneVac-B® at birth, ideally within 12 hours, along with Hepatitis B Immunoglobulin (HBIG) for optimal protection.

12. Is GeneVac-B® effective immediately?

Answer: The vaccine provides immunity after completing the full series of doses, usually achieved within 6 months. Partial immunity may develop after the initial doses.

13. Are there any precautions before taking the vaccine?

Answer: Patients with acute febrile illnesses should postpone vaccination. Those with bleeding disorders should receive the injection cautiously. Consult with a healthcare provider before vaccination.

14. Can I take GeneVac-B® if I have a fever or illness?

Answer: Vaccination should be postponed if you have a fever or acute illness. It is best to wait until you recover before receiving the vaccine. Please consult with a healthcare provider for guidance on the timing of the vaccination based on your condition.

15. Can GeneVac-B® be taken with other vaccines?

Answer: Yes, GeneVac-B® can be administered alongside other vaccines. However, it should be given at a different injection site to ensure optimal effectiveness and minimize potential interactions.