When should the second dose of the hepatitis B vaccine be given to infants born to an HBsAg-positive mother?

The recommended timing for administering the second dose of the hepatitis B vaccine to infants born to HBsAg-positive mothers is at one month of age. The hepatitis B vaccine is part of a series of vaccinations designed to effectively protect infants from hepatitis B infection, especially those at increased risk due to maternal status.

In this context, the initial dose is given at birth, which is critical for initiating the immune response and providing early protection. Administering the second dose at one month ensures that the infant is receiving the vaccine in accordance with the recommended schedule, allowing for an effective immune response and optimal protection against the virus. This schedule is essential for maintaining the appropriate intervals between doses, which support immunogenicity and long-term immunity.

Understanding the timing of doses is important in the context of neonatal care and transport, as it plays a key role in preventing vertical transmission of hepatitis B. Delaying or administering doses outside of the recommended schedule could lead to increased susceptibility to infection or inadequate immune response.