Hepatitis B vaccine
Hello, I received three doses of the vaccine seven years ago.
Six months later, I was tested and found to have antibodies, but now during my recent check-up, it was reported that I have no antibodies.
I would like to ask the doctor about this issue! 1.
Is it possible that the vaccine's effectiveness has diminished (some doctors suggested getting a booster shot)? 2.
Could there be an error in the testing?
Lin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/11/03
Dr. Yang Peizhen reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The antibodies generated after vaccination may diminish over time, or the initial antibody response right after vaccination may not be very high.
Of course, the sensitivity of testing for hepatitis B antibodies can vary between hospitals, which may lead to different results.
It is recommended that you undergo retesting at a major hospital.
If antibodies are still absent, you may consider receiving a booster shot! Sincerely, Dr.
Yang Pei-Chen, Director of the Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.
Reply Date: 2003/11/03
More Info
When it comes to understanding the antibody levels following Hepatitis B vaccination, it's essential to grasp how the immune response works and what the antibody levels signify. After receiving the complete series of the Hepatitis B vaccine, which typically consists of three doses, most individuals develop protective antibodies against the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). The presence of these antibodies, specifically the Hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs), indicates that the person is immune to the virus.
In your case, you mentioned that you had your vaccination seven years ago and initially had detectable anti-HBs levels, but recent tests indicate that you no longer have these antibodies. This situation raises a couple of important points to consider:
1. Natural Decline of Antibodies: It is well-documented that the levels of anti-HBs can decline over time after vaccination. While the antibodies may decrease, this does not necessarily mean that you have lost all protection against HBV. The immune system retains a "memory" of the virus, which means that if you were to be exposed to the virus, your body could still mount a response and produce antibodies again. This phenomenon is known as immunological memory.
2. Protective Levels of Anti-HBs: Generally, an anti-HBs level of 10 mIU/mL or higher is considered protective against Hepatitis B infection. If your recent test showed that your anti-HBs levels are below this threshold, it may indicate that you are no longer considered immune. However, the exact level at which you are deemed "non-immune" can vary based on laboratory standards and individual health factors.
3. Re-vaccination Considerations: If your anti-HBs levels are indeed low or undetectable, your healthcare provider may recommend a booster dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine. This is often a single dose, and it can help to re-establish protective antibody levels. The response to a booster can vary; some individuals may show a robust increase in anti-HBs levels, while others may not respond as strongly.
4. Testing Accuracy: It's also important to consider the possibility of testing errors. Laboratory tests can sometimes yield false negatives or false positives due to various factors, including the sensitivity of the assay used. If there is any doubt about the accuracy of your results, it may be worthwhile to repeat the test or consult with a specialist in infectious diseases or hepatology.
5. Monitoring and Follow-Up: If you have concerns about your Hepatitis B immunity status, it is advisable to have a discussion with your healthcare provider. They may suggest regular monitoring of your anti-HBs levels, especially if you are at higher risk for exposure to Hepatitis B or if you have underlying health conditions that could affect your immune response.
In summary, while the decline of anti-HBs levels over time is common, it does not necessarily mean that you are unprotected against Hepatitis B due to the immune memory. However, if your levels are below the protective threshold, a booster vaccination may be warranted. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your specific health situation and vaccination history.
Similar Q&A
Understanding Hepatitis B Antibody Levels: Do You Need a Booster Vaccine?
In last September's health check, the Hepatitis B antigen was 0.29, and the Hepatitis B antibody was 22.99. Are these values too low? Do I need to receive a booster vaccine? A friend is a carrier, and I have previously come into contact with his bleeding wound, while I also ...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Currently, there is no consensus on the need for a booster shot for everyone. However, individuals who are concerned can choose to pay for an additional dose and have their blood tested for effectiveness one month later.[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Antibody Levels: Do You Need a Booster Vaccine?
Understanding HBsAg Levels and Hepatitis B Virus Infection Risks
Hello Doctor, my husband had a health check-up over a month ago and was found to have a Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) level of 0.12 IU/ml. The physician's overall assessment indicates that there is a Hepatitis B virus in his body and that he is infectious. I would like...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. A positive HBsAg indicates an infection with the hepatitis B virus. Testing for IgM anti-HBc can determine if it is an acute hepatitis B infection. If HBsAg remains positive after six months and HBsAb is negative, it indicates chronic hepatitis B. 2. Hepatitis B is ...[Read More] Understanding HBsAg Levels and Hepatitis B Virus Infection Risks
Understanding Hepatitis B Antibody Levels After Vaccination: What to Expect
Dear Doctor: My hepatitis B antibody test result was originally positive. To boost the antibody concentration, I received an additional dose of the hepatitis B vaccine. About 7 to 8 days later, I had my blood drawn to check the hepatitis B antibody levels, and the result showed a...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Previously, if the antibodies were produced after vaccination, some individuals may not have detectable antibodies after 5 to 10 years. However, if their memory immune cells are still present, a single dose of the hepatitis B vaccine can trigger a rebound in antibody level...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Antibody Levels After Vaccination: What to Expect
Understanding Elevated SGPT Levels and Hepatitis B Vaccination Concerns
Hello, I have some questions: Recently, I received my school health check report and found that my SGPT level is 54 IU/L, which is above the standard value of 0-40 IU/L. Additionally, the report indicated that I do not have antibodies for Hepatitis B, but I later checked and foun...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, a positive HBsAb indicates immunity against hepatitis B. Generally, the antibody levels from the vaccine may decrease over time, but a decline in levels does not necessarily mean a loss of the ability to fight hepatitis B. The third dose of the vaccine is primarily to main...[Read More] Understanding Elevated SGPT Levels and Hepatitis B Vaccination Concerns
Related FAQ
Hepatitis B Vaccine
(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Hepatitis B Antibodies(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Hepatitis B Screening(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Hepatitis B Infection Risk(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Hepatitis B Transmission(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Hepatitis B Medication(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Hepatitis B Vaccine(Family Medicine)
Hepatitis B(Internal Medicine)
Diarrhea(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Viral Infection(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)