Biovac B Injection (Hepatitis B Vaccine) – Prevention of Hepatitis B Virus Infection

Biovac B Injection is an active immunizing agent designed to prevent hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in at-risk individuals. This vaccine is crucial for newborns, children, healthcare workers, and adults exposed to HBV through blood, sexual contact, or other means. Administered by medical professionals, Biovac B stimulates the immune system to produce protective antibodies against HBV. The vaccine follows a standard 3-dose schedule (0, 1, and 6 months) for optimal protection. While it cannot cure existing hepatitis B infections, It is highly effective in preventing new infections when administered as prescribed.

Uses of Biovac B Injection:

– Prevention of Hepatitis B virus infection
– Protection against liver cirrhosis and cancer caused by HBV
– Recommended for newborns, children, and high-risk adults

Benefits of Biovac B Injection:

– Prevents HBV transmission through blood, saliva, or sexual contact
– Reduces risk of chronic liver disease by up to 95% with complete vaccination
– Safe for all age groups, including infants and pregnant women (under medical supervision)
– Long-term protection with complete vaccination course

Side Effects of Biovac B Injection:

Most reactions are mild and temporary:
– Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, pain – occurs in 1 in 4 people)
– Low-grade fever (1 in 15 cases)
– Fatigue
– Decreased appetite
– Nasal inflammation
These typically resolve within 24-48 hours without treatment.

How to Use Biovac B Injection?

– Administered by healthcare professionals only (intramuscular injection)
– Standard schedule: 0, 1, and 6 months
– Newborns: First dose within 24 hours of birth
– High-risk adults: Same 3-dose schedule
– Never self-administer

How Biovac B Injection Works?

It contains hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) that triggers immune response without causing disease. This stimulates antibody production, creating immunity against future HBV exposure. Protection begins about 2 weeks after the first dose, with full immunity developing after the complete series.

Safety Advice:

– Pregnancy: Generally safe (Category B)
– Breastfeeding: Safe – minimal excretion in milk
– Kidney/Liver Disease: Safe; no dose adjustment needed
– Allergies: Contraindicated if allergic to yeast or vaccine components
– Illness: May delay if acute febrile illness present

What If You Missed a Dose?

Consult your doctor immediately. The series doesn’t need restarting – just continue from the missed dose. Maximum recommended interval between doses is 6 months for adults.

FAQs:

Q1. Who needs Biovac B vaccination most urgently?

Newborns of HBV+ mothers, healthcare workers, dialysis patients, IV drug users, and sexually active adults with multiple partners require priority vaccination.

Q2. How long does hepatitis B vaccine protection last?

Minimum 20 years, possibly lifelong in most healthy individuals. Booster doses aren’t routinely recommended.

Q3. Can I get hepatitis B from the vaccine?

No. Biovac B contains only a protein from the virus’ surface – it cannot cause HBV infection.

Q4. What’s the earliest age for vaccination?

Birth – first dose is ideally given within 24 hours for maximum protection.

Q5. Is blood testing needed after vaccination?

Only recommended for high-risk groups (healthcare workers, infants of HBV+ mothers) to confirm immunity.

Q6. Can adults get hepatitis B vaccine?

Yes, and strongly recommended for those with occupational exposure, chronic liver disease, or high-risk behaviors.