Hepatitis B refers to an infectious type of liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is a common infectious disease in Hong Kong. Around one-tenth of adults and nearly all perinatally infected infants cannot eliminate HBV from the body and are carriers of this virus. These people are susceptible to liver disease, liver cancer and chronic hepatitis. Carrier mothers may pass hepatitis B to their children. Vaccination against Hepatitis B can reduce your chance of getting an infection.
In Hong Kong, free Hepatitis B Vaccines are introduced to newborn infants. Infants will complete their doses in the first month, 1 month later and 5 months after the first dose respectively. For infants with carrier mothers, Hepatitis B immunoglobulin will be simultaneously injected with the first dose. Although Hepatitis B vaccination has been popular for decades, it is not significantly less influential in Hong Kong due to existing carriers and immigrants.
Hepatitis B vaccine is only available as injections. Adults will complete their three doses in the first month, a month later and 5 months after the first dose respectively.
Common dosing schedule:
First dose, then second dose one month later, then third dose five months later.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Hepatitis B Vaccine may interact with:
In Hong Kong, Hepatitis B Vaccine is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Hepatitis B Vaccine in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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