Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a highly contagious infection that attacks the liver. It is transmitted through bodily fluids and blood. Infection can result from:
- improperly screened blood transfusions
- unprotected sex
- intravenous drug use
- close person contact with an infected person
- sharing grooming tools
The vaccine is recommended for people who:
- travel to areas where hepatitis B infection is prevalent
- are health care professionals
- have chronic liver disease
- have HIV
- have kidney disease
Hepatitis B vaccines are given in three or four doses over a course of several months.