Immunoprophylaxis of Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B in Children

Hepatitis A vaccines are extremely safe, immunogenic, and effective in prevention of infection. Universal childhood vaccination is recommended. Since implementation of newer hepatitis A vaccination strategies in 1995, the incidence of infection has decreased by over 92%. Hepatitis A vaccine may now be used as postexposure prophylaxis for most children over the age of 1 year. The incidence of acute hepatitis B has decreased by 98% since 1990, mostly due to improved vaccination strategies. Hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis B immune globulin must be given promptly to infants born to hepatitis B-infected mothers and unvaccinated persons with hepatitis B exposure.