Insights into Hepatitis B Immunoglobulin Injections: An Overview
Hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) is a protective measure used to guard against hepatitis B infection. This substance is derived from human plasma and contains antibodies that help stop the hepatitis B virus (HBV) from developing into an infection.
While the hepatitis B vaccine offers long-term protection against the virus, HBIG injections provide temporary protection, known as passive immunity. This means that the antibodies in the HBIG injection help fight off the virus, but they do not provide long-term protection.
HBIG injections are typically administered to individuals who have been exposed to HBV and are non-immune or inadequately immune. This includes:
- Newborns born to hepatitis B surface antigen-positive (HBsAg) mothers, who receive HBIG and the first dose of hepatitis B vaccine as soon as possible, ideally within 12 hours of birth but up to 7 days if delayed.
- Unvaccinated or non-immune persons who have had recent exposure to HBV through sexual contact with an infected person (within 14 days), needlestick or mucous membrane exposure to HBV-contaminated blood, or other significant exposures.
- Individuals with incomplete or unknown hepatitis B vaccination status who have had percutaneous or mucosal exposure to blood or body fluids from HBV-positive individuals.
- Certain high-risk groups such as hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients, individuals with lifestyle risks (e.g., men who have sex with men, multiple sexual partners, illicit drug users), healthcare workers or students with occupational blood exposure risk.
- Babies born to mothers with high levels of HBV DNA or acute/chronic HBV infection, as post-exposure prophylaxis to prevent vertical transmission.
Typical circumstances for HBIG administration include:
- Immediate post-exposure prophylaxis after perinatal exposure (birth to infected mother).
- Sexual exposure to hepatitis B from an infected partner.
- Occupational exposure such as needlestick injuries.
- Exposure in household settings if a family member is HBV-infected.
- Following accidental exposure to infected blood or bodily fluids in healthcare or community settings.
In all these cases, HBIG serves as passive immunization to provide immediate antibodies while active immunization via hepatitis B vaccine series is initiated or completed to develop long-term immunity. Timing is critical: HBIG is most effective when given as soon as possible after exposure, ideally within 24 hours but can be given up to 14 days post-exposure depending on the situation.
It is important to note that HBIG injections cannot provide long-term protection from hepatitis B. The highest levels of immunity from HBIG injections typically occur within the first 7 days, with around 80% of people reaching peak immunity. HBIG injections are most effective immediately after administration and offer quick, short-lasting protection.
It is also worth mentioning that HBIG injections can interfere with other vaccinations, such as the one for MMR, so it is important to discuss with a doctor when the right time is to get an HBIG injection.
HBIG is a valuable tool in the fight against hepatitis B. This viral infection affects the liver and can lead to serious health complications, such as liver failure, scarring, and cancer. Vaccinations are available to help prevent hepatitis B infection, and it is recommended for most people up to the age of 60, including infants and children.
Doctors recommend HBIG injections to people with exposure to the hepatitis B virus and who are at high risk for infection. If you have any concerns about hepatitis B or think you may have been exposed to the virus, it is important to speak with your doctor.
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