This change is being made to help simplify the Recombivax HB dosing schedule. When the supply of Pediatric Formulation is depleted, clinics should use the 5 mcg formulation for all patients 0-19 years of age regardless of the mother's hepatitis B status. This change should end any confusion about which Recombivax dose to give to infants born to hepatitis B-positive mothers, because all infants will receive the higher dose. The following table shows the current hepatitis B vaccine formulations. The MnVFC vaccine order form will be revised soon to reflect this change.
Maternal antibody can interfere with viral replication which produces an effective immune response.
Maternal antibody wanes over the first year of life. In addition, the Minnesota School Immunization Law requires that measles vaccine be given on or after the first birthday to enroll in a Minnesota school. Children vaccinated even one day prior to the first birthday need to receive a repeat dose of MMR vaccine after 12 months of age to meet the school law requirement. These students also need to receive another vaccine dose, currently recommended to be given at age 4 - 6 years of age, or at least four weeks after the previous dose. However, the school law does not require evidence of a second dose of MMR until entrance to 7th grade.