Postexposure Prophylaxis

After exposure to Hepatitis B virus (HBV), appropriate and timely prophylaxis can prevent HBV infection and subsequent development of chronic infection or liver disease. The mainstay of postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) is Hepatitis B vaccine, but, in certain circumstances, Hepatitis B immune globulin is recommended in addition to vaccine for added protection. This page provides links to PEP guidelines and resources by type of exposure.

 

Occupational Exposure

Management of Occupational Exposures to HBV, HCV, and HIV and Recommendations for Postexposure Prophylaxis
MMWR 2001;56(RR-11)

National Clinicians Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Hotline (PEPline)
Hotline providing clinicians with 24-hour guidance on managing occupational exposures to HIV, viral hepatitis, and other bloodborne pathogens

 

Nonoccupational Exposure

Postexposure Prophylaxis to Prevent Hepatitis B Virus Infection
MMWR 2006,56(RR-16), Appendix B

 

Perinatal Exposure

Infants born to HBV-infected mothers should receive Hepatitis B vaccine and Hepatitis B immune globulin within 12 hours of birth.

See the Perinatal Transmission page or the complete guidelines on postexposure prophylaxis for newborns: A Comprehensive Immunization Strategy to Eliminate Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus Infection: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Part 1: Immunization of Infants, Children, and Adolescents [PDF - 39 pages]