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Is the hepatitis vaccine ineffective?

Dr Patrick Kamath
Senior Gastroenterologist,
Mayo Clinic, Rochester,
USA

Q: There have been reports in the media indicating that hepatitis vaccine is ineffective. I have already had the first shot of vaccine (Engerix-B, Glaxo-SmithKline) last week. Should I have the remaining two more doses?

A:The vaccine is effective in more than 90 percent of healthy adults. I would recommend you receive the two remaining doses and 1 month after the third dose check the Hepatitis B surface antibody. If this is positive then the vaccine is effective in you.(The reports in the media refer to Hepatitis A vaccination, in which the indication for vaccination is being questioned because of the cost... DoctorNDTV)