Revac-B Plus Pediatric Vaccine (Hepatitis B Vaccine) – Prevention of Hepatitis B in Children

Revac-B Plus Pediatric Vaccine is a crucial immunization that prepares your child’s immune system to fight against the hepatitis B virus, which causes serious liver infections. This vaccine also helps prevent hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer) in children. It is administered via intramuscular injection—typically in the thigh for infants under 1 year and in the arm for older children. A full course requires three doses: the first within 24 hours of birth, the second at 1-2 months (minimum 28-day gap), and the third between 6-18 months (minimum 16-week gap from the first dose). Skipping any dose may leave your child vulnerable to hepatitis B infection. The vaccine can be given alone or alongside other immunizations safely.

Uses of Revac-B Plus Pediatric Vaccine:

Prevention of Hepatitis B infection in infants and children.

Benefits of Revac-B Plus Pediatric Vaccine:

It stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the hepatitis B virus, offering long-term protection. By preventing hepatitis B, it reduces the risk of liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer in children.

Side Effects of Revac-B Plus Pediatric Vaccine:

Most side effects are mild and temporary, including:
– Fever
– Mild crankiness or loss of appetite
– Skin rash or body pain
– Runny nose or wheezing
– Redness/swelling at the injection site
These symptoms usually resolve on their own. Consult a doctor if they persist.

How to Use Revac-B Plus Pediatric Vaccine?

Administered by a doctor or nurse only. Do not self-administer. Ensure the injection site is rotated to avoid soreness. Minor illnesses (like a cold) do not delay vaccination, but severe illnesses may require rescheduling.

How Revac-B Plus Pediatric Vaccine Works?

The vaccine contains an inactive surface antigen of the hepatitis B virus, which triggers an immune response without causing infection. This helps the body produce protective antibodies against future hepatitis B exposure.

Safety Advice:

Kidney Disease: Safe but may require a booster dose. Consult a doctor.
Liver Disease: Limited data available. Consult a doctor before vaccination.
Allergies: Inform the doctor if your child has a history of severe allergic reactions.

What If You Missed a Dose?

If a scheduled dose is missed, consult the doctor immediately to resume vaccination. Do not delay subsequent doses.

FAQs:

Q1. Why should I vaccinate my child with Revac-B Plus Pediatric Vaccine?

Hepatitis B can cause life-threatening liver complications. Vaccination within 24 hours of birth offers the best protection.

Q2. Is a booster dose needed after the primary 3-dose series?

Yes, especially for children with kidney disease. Antibody levels should be monitored, and boosters given if levels are low.

Q3. Is this vaccine safe for premature babies?

Premature infants may face breathing difficulties post-vaccination. Consult a doctor before administration.

Q4. Does Revac-B Plus protect against other hepatitis types?

It protects against hepatitis B and indirectly prevents hepatitis D (which only occurs with hepatitis B co-infection).

Q5. Can Revac-B Plus be given with other vaccines?

Yes, it does not interfere with other vaccines.

Q6. When should I call the doctor immediately after vaccination?

Seek urgent care if your child experiences severe allergies, high fever, numbness, dizziness, or vision changes.

Q7. Who should get this vaccine?

All infants, unvaccinated children up to 19 years, and high-risk groups (chronic liver disease, HIV, or hepatitis B-exposed individuals).

Q8. Is hepatitis B curable?

No. Symptoms may resolve, but the infection can persist lifelong, leading to chronic liver damage.

Q9. Is hepatitis B life-threatening?

Yes. Chronic infection can cause liver cirrhosis, cancer, or death.