What is the standard vaccination schedule for hepatitis B?

The standard vaccination schedule for hepatitis B involves three doses administered at specific intervals: the first dose at birth, the second dose at 1 month, and the third dose at 6 months of age. This schedule is designed to ensure adequate immune response and long-term protection against hepatitis B virus infection.

The first dose is critical because it helps establish immunity early in life, especially for infants who are at higher risk of severe disease if infected. The second and third doses help to boost the immune response, leading to a more robust and lasting immunity. Studies have shown that completing the full series significantly reduces the likelihood of infection and complications associated with hepatitis B.

Other schedules listed, such as two doses or four doses, do not align with the established guidelines from health organizations like the CDC and WHO, which recommend the three-dose schedule as the most effective method for providing protection.