A member asked:

When is the latest, after exposure, that the hepatitis b vaccine and immunoglobulin can be given to prevent infection? is 13-18 days too late? will getting the vaccine prevent you from being able to accurately test whether an infection occurred?

6 doctors weighed in across 4 answers

Hepatitis B: Since the incubation period is highly variable it is quite possible that receiving immunoglobulin 13-18 days after exposure may be beneficial in modulating infection it is unlikely that adding hepatitis B vaccine will make a difference. On the other hand, it will not hurt you and taking it may or may not provide further antibody stimulation.

Answered 3/30/2015

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Dr. Julie Abbott answered

Specializes in Preventive Medicine

It depends on: the source of exposure. If the source of exposure is a occupational needle stick, immunoglobulin is most effective within 24 hours; effectiveness after 7 days is doubtful. However, if the hepatitis B exposure was through sexual contact, there seems to be value if given up to 14 days afterward. The vaccine will cause an positive ANTIBODY response, but positive ANTIGEN tests will result if infected.

Answered 3/30/2015

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Dr. David Lipkin answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine

See below: Hep B immune globulin needs to be given as soon as possible, and within 7-8 days of exposure to be effective. If given within the first week it's 75% effective in preventing Hep B. Hepatitis B vaccine can be started any time to protect you against future exposure to HepB. But to offer any protection to a new exposure needs to be given within 24 hours if possible. Vaccination>won't prevent testing

Answered 3/30/2015

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Hep B / HBIG: The value of administering Hepatitis B vaccine and immunoglobulin beyond 7 days past and acute blood exposure is unclear, an both vaccines are ideally administered within 14 days of a sexual exposure.

Answered 3/30/2015

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