Hepatitis B Immunization
The hepatitis B vaccine effectively protects against the hepatitis B virus. Childhood vaccination for hepatitis B has contributed to an overall 96% decline in acute HBV infections in children and adolescents. The majority of new HBV infections now occur among adults,2 including through occupational exposure.
Your employer must offer the hepatitis B vaccine for free to any employees determined to be at risk of occupational exposure to blood or body fluids prior to undertaking any tasks that could result in an exposure.
The entire series of 3 shots at specific intervals is needed to provide full immunity. The vaccine is safe with very few adverse reactions. A physician or other licensed healthcare professional will perform or supervise the vaccinations.
Your employer does not have to offer you the vaccination series if you have previously received the complete series or have tested as immune to HBV.
You can decline the vaccination for hepatitis B after being informed of the risks and benefits. To do this, you must sign a declination form. If you initially decline the hepatitis B vaccine, you can ask for it from the company at any time, at no cost to you.
Knowledge Check
False. If an employee initially declines the hepatitis B vaccine, they can ask for it from the company at any time, at no cost.