The hepatitis B vaccine prevents infection with the hepatitis B virus, which can cause serious problems, including liver damage, liver cancer, or even death. Over 1.2 million people in the United States are chronically infected with the hepatitis B virus. Children under eighteen should receive three doses of this vaccine. Children who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to baker's yeast or to a previous dose of hepatitis B vaccine should not receive this vaccine. Mild problems and side effects that can occur after receiving hepatitis B vaccine, include, soreness where the shot was given or mild to moderate fever.
Severe reactions are very rare, but can include serious allergic reactions.
Use our Vaccine Schedule program to print a customized immunization schedule for your child. All rights reserved. It is not meant to replace the advice of the physician who cares for your child. All medical advice and information should be considered to be incomplete without a physical exam, which is not possible without a visit to your doctor.