Answer:

Hepatitis B is easily transmitted through blood, from mother to child, and sexual contact. Vietnam is among the countries in the region with one of the highest prevalences of the hepatitis B virus globally. In its early stage, the disease progresses silently with no symptoms, often leaving individuals unaware and untreated, which increases the risk of complications such as cirrhosis and cancer. It also serves as a source of infection within the community.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vaccination is a safe and effective way to prevent hepatitis B. Currently, single hepatitis B vaccines are available, as are combination vaccines that also protect against hepatitis A in the same injection, and multi-component vaccines like 5-in-1 or 6-in-1 that include hepatitis B. Newborns should receive one dose of the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth, followed by adherence to the 5-in-1 or 6-in-1 vaccination schedule. Adults typically require three doses over 6 months, with hepatitis B screening recommended before vaccination.

Adults receive the hepatitis B vaccine for prevention at VNVC Immunization System. Photo: Dieu Thuan.

However, the protective antibodies from the vaccine can gradually decrease over time, influenced by age and health status. Therefore, individuals should undergo regular health check-ups and hepatitis B antibody testing, receiving a booster shot when antibody levels decline to maintain protection against the pathogen.

To address your situation, Nguyen Linh, you completed the standard three-dose adult hepatitis B vaccination regimen 5 years ago. Given that your recent antibody test results show a decrease, and a family member has hepatitis B, you are considered high-risk for contracting the disease. You should visit an immunization facility for consultation and vaccination as directed by a doctor to boost your protective antibodies. There are two types of hepatitis B vaccines available: single-component or combined with hepatitis A protection. Due to your high-risk status, you may be prescribed a schedule of four doses over 12 months.

Beyond vaccination, you should also practice preventive measures such as using safe sex practices, avoiding alcohol, maintaining a healthy diet, and refraining from sharing personal items like toothbrushes, tweezers, nail clippers, and razors with infected individuals.

Doctor Phan Nguyen Truong Giang

Medical Manager, VNVC Immunization System

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