Engerix-B® & Recombivax HB® are Vaccines That Protect Against Hepatitis B Virus
- Hepatitis B vaccines can be given to people of all ages who wish to prevent the Hepatitis B virus.
- In Ontario, Hepatitis B vaccine is given through a publicly funded schedule in Grade 7.
- Engerix-B® and Recombivax HB® are both given as an intramuscular injection in the deltoid muscle in children and adults, and the anterolateral thigh in neonates and infants under the one year of age.
Mild side effects may occur, such as:
- Redness, pain and swelling where the needled was given;
- Slight fever;
- Tiredness, headaches, nausea which may last a day or two;
- Sore muscles and joints which may last a day or two.
Severe side effects are rare.
Abnormal reactions to see a doctor for and report to the Health Unit:
- Hives;
- Very high fever;
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing;
- Swelling of the face or mouth;
- Loss of consciousness;
- Convulsions.
Allergic reactions such as hives, wheezing, swelling of the face and mouth, difficulty breathing, convulsions or seizures are extremely rare. However, if these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately, and contact the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit, Vaccine Preventable Diseases Program at 705-474-1400 ext. 5252 direct fax: 705-474-9399 to report the abnormal reaction once care has been received.
Hepatitis B virus
- The Hepatitis B virus can permanently damage your liver. It is the biggest cause of liver cancer worldwide. People with the disease often become tired, feverish, lose their appetite, and sometimes get yellow skin and eyes (jaundice).
- You can have the disease, and possibly even infect someone else, without even knowing it. You can get Hepatitis B through the blood and other body fluids from an infected person. It's primarily a sexually transmitted disease, but you can also pick it up through used needles and through body/ear piercing or tattooing with dirty equipment. An infected mother can also pass it on to her child at birth.
- There is no cure for Hepatitis B. Most people do recover from the disease, but some people will continue to have liver problems for the rest of their lives.