Hepatitis B is a virus that harms the liver. It can cause serious illness and permanent damage.
Because hepatitis B is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids, babies can get the virus during birth. Infants and young kids who aren’t vaccinated against hepatitis B can also get the virus after birth.
A “birth dose,” or first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine given within 24 hours of birth, offers the best protection for newborns, infants, and young children.
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