Recombivax HB® or Engerix®-B
Hepatitis B virus infection can spread from contact with blood and body fluids,. It commonly spreads among people who live in the same household. It can also be passed from an infected parent to baby during birth; unprotected sexual activity; unsterilized or contaminated needles, piercing or tattoos, spa or medical equipment. The symptoms may take several months to appear. For some individuals, their immune system is able to fight off the infection. Some people live with hepatitis B for life (chronic carriers) and can continue to spread the infection to others. Long-term infections may lead to liver damage, cirrhosis or cancer.
The vaccine is over 95 per cent effective in preventing hepatitis B virus infection after completing the full vaccine series. Children between the ages of five and 15 years, who received the vaccine series produce a stronger immune response compared to adults.
The immune response also varies with the schedule used, the dosage, and the underlying health status of the person being immunized. The vaccine does not protect individuals who are already living with hepatitis B.
The vaccine prevents liver cancer caused by hepatitis B infection. Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for everyone, including people with careers in healthcare, childcare and for travellers.
Students in grades 7 to 12 can get free hepatitis B vaccine at Toronto Public Health community clinics by booking an appointment.
The vaccine is also publicly funded for higher-risk individuals, and for infants born to birth parents living with hepatitis B. Combination hepatitis A and B vaccine for travel or career purposes is not publicly funded and may cost approximately $85 to 110 per dose depending if an adult or pediatric dose is needed.
Pregnant individuals who are living with hepatitis B can also pass the virus to their newborn during childbirth.
If you’re pregnant, it’s important to get tested for hepatitis B. If the virus is detected, your baby can be protected with a medication (HBIG) within 12 hours of birth in addition to three doses of the hepatitis B vaccine.
Pregnant individuals who are not vaccinated and are at higher risk of infection should get vaccinated as soon as possible.
The hepatitis B vaccine is safe during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Speak to your health care provider for more information.
The vaccine is safe, effective and generally well tolerated. Reactions are usually mild and last only a few days. Common side effects are pain and redness where the vaccine was given, headache, fever, dizziness, nausea or feeling faint shortly after receiving the vaccine.
In rare cases, serious allergic reactions such as trouble breathing, rash, swelling in the throat and face may occur. Allergic reactions can be treated and are usually temporary. Please stay at the clinic for 15 minutes after vaccination for staff to monitor for any reactions. There are no long-term side effects associated with this vaccine.
Anyone with allergies to vaccine ingredients such as yeast, alum or latex (in Recombivax® vaccine) should not receive the vaccine.
If you have a fever, it is recommended to delay getting the vaccine until you are feeling better.