What is given to newborns to prevent perinatal transmission of hepatitis B?

What is given to newborns to prevent perinatal transmission of hepatitis B?

• A. HBIG 0.5 mL IM and first dose of HBV vaccine within 12 hours
• B. Vitamin K
• C. Hepatitis A vaccine
• D. Antibiotics

Answer: (A)

To prevent perinatal transmission of hepatitis B, the newborn should receive both passive and active immunization right after birth. The hepatitis B immune globulin given intramuscularly provides immediate antibodies, offering protection at birth, while the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine stimulates the baby’s own immune system to develop longer-lasting protection. Administering HBIG and the birth-dose vaccine within about 12 hours maximizes protection, especially when the mother is hepatitis B surface antigen positive or status is unknown. The vaccine series then continues as scheduled for durable immunity. Other options don’t address hepatitis B transmission: Vitamin K prevents hemorrhagic disease, Hepatitis A vaccine protects against hepatitis A, and antibiotics don’t prevent HBV transmission.

To prevent perinatal transmission of hepatitis B, the newborn should receive both passive and active immunization right after birth. The hepatitis B immune globulin given intramuscularly provides immediate antibodies, offering protection at birth, while the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine stimulates the baby’s own immune system to develop longer-lasting protection. Administering HBIG and the birth-dose vaccine within about 12 hours maximizes protection, especially when the mother is hepatitis B surface antigen positive or status is unknown. The vaccine series then continues as scheduled for durable immunity. Other options don’t address hepatitis B transmission: Vitamin K prevents hemorrhagic disease, Hepatitis A vaccine protects against hepatitis A, and antibiotics don’t prevent HBV transmission.