Hepatitis Gail Lupica PhD, rn, cne hepatitis

Hepatitis B

• Incubation period: 25-180 days
• Vaccine: yes “Heptavax” Given in 3 doses over 6 months
• (the second follows the first after one month, the third is given 6 months after the initial dose.)
• Given to babies at birth. This greatly reduces the risk of babies become carriers of the disease.

Hepatitis B

• Immune Serum Globulin: Hepatitis B immune globulin
• Provides passive immunity for those who were exposed to the HBV
• The cost is high. Given only when there was known exposure.
• Seriousness: Up to 10% develop carrier state, or chronic hepatitis. --hepatocellular CA in US.
• Most cases do clear the virus and then have immunity.
• Dx: anti HBc Igm or HBsA