Hepatitis B Vaccine

What is the Hepatitis B Vaccine?

The Hepatitis B vaccine is a vaccine that protects the body against the Hepatitis B virus and triggers an immune response. Hepatitis B is a virus that can cause serious liver diseases, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. The Hepatitis B virus (HBV) can be transmitted sexually, through blood contact, or from mother to baby during birth. The vaccine is the most effective way to prevent this contagious disease and vaccination may be required in certain job sectors as part of the pre-employment health report.

How Does the Hepatitis B Vaccine Work?

The Hepatitis B vaccine does not contain live or weakened virus. Instead, it contains particles with a protein called HBsAg found on the surface of the virus that activates the immune system. The vaccine teaches the immune system how to recognize and fight the Hepatitis B virus. Thus, when exposed to the real virus, the body quickly develops defenses and prevents infection.

Who Should Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine?

The Hepatitis B vaccine is extremely important for both at-risk groups and the general population. The following groups should especially receive the Hepatitis B vaccine:

• Newborn babies: The vaccine is given shortly after birth to protect the baby from the virus that may be passed from the mother.
• Healthcare workers: Those frequently exposed to blood and body fluids must be vaccinated.
• Individuals with risky behaviors: Those engaging in unprotected sex or injection drug use have increased risk.
• People receiving blood transfusions or dialysis: These groups are at higher risk for blood-borne infections.
• Family members of Hepatitis B carriers: Those living in the same environment may contract the virus from carriers.

When Should the Hepatitis B Vaccine Be Administered?

The Hepatitis B vaccine is typically given in 3 doses spaced over a period:

• First dose: The initial vaccination.
• Second dose: About one month after the first dose.
• Third dose: About six months after the first dose.

Those who complete the vaccine series are generally protected against Hepatitis B for life, though regular monitoring and booster doses may be necessary for certain risk groups.

Hepatitis B Vaccine and Pre-Employment Health Report

In some sectors, individuals may be required to have the Hepatitis B vaccine as part of their pre-employment health report. This is especially important in healthcare, food production, and hygiene-sensitive jobs to protect workers from the virus and ensure workplace safety. At İZKA OSGB, we carefully check Hepatitis B vaccination status during pre-employment health assessments.

What Are the Side Effects of the Hepatitis B Vaccine?

The Hepatitis B vaccine is generally safe, and side effects are very rare. Possible side effects include:

• Mild pain or swelling at the injection site
• Mild fever
• Fatigue or weakness

These side effects are usually short-lived and resolve quickly. Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare.

İZKA OSGB and Hepatitis B Vaccine

At İZKA OSGB, we provide Hepatitis B vaccination services as part of our employee health and occupational safety services. We administer the necessary Hepatitis B vaccine safely and effectively during pre-employment health reports to help protect your employees’ health. By ensuring regular vaccination follow-ups, we help minimize infection risks in your workplace.