Health
Accelerated dosing schedule for hepatitis vaccine
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted Nov. 5, 2007
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is alerting physicians to the fact that the combined hepatitis A and B vaccine can be administered on an accelerated schedule, according to a statement published in the Oct. 12 Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
The vaccine originally was approved in 2001 to be given in a three-shot series over six months.
In April, the Food and Drug Administration gave the nod for it to be given three times within one month followed by a final vaccination one year later.
Patients acquire significant protection after the first three shots. The CDC suggests that the revised schedule be used for those traveling to high-risk areas or who otherwise would be exposed to these viruses but don't have six months to wait.
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2007/11/05/hlbf1105.htm.
