[Hepatitis B Vaccine: What You Need to Know] [Hepatitis B Vaccine: What You Need to Know]

This information sheet discusses the hepatitis B vaccine. It presents statistics on the incidence of hepatitis B in the United States and describes the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and its effect on the liver, the symptoms, the difference between acute (short-term) illness and chronic (long-term) infection, transmission, and prevention. It provides reasons for getting vaccinated to prevent HBV, and explains who should get the vaccine and when, whether there are any risks from the vaccine, moderate or severe reactions, and where to file a claim if an individual believes he/she was injured by the vaccine. The information sheet also gives sources for more information.