What is Hepatitis B and Why It Matters
Hepatitis B is a serious viral infection that attacks the liver and can lead to both acute and chronic diseases, including liver cirrhosis and cancer. The virus spreads through contact with infected blood, semen, or other body fluids. Common transmission methods include unprotected sex, sharing needles or razors, blood transfusions, and from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
Globally, over 250 million people live with chronic Hepatitis B. In Bangladesh, it remains a major public health concern, especially due to limited awareness and late diagnosis. The good news is that Hepatitis B is preventable through vaccination.
Hepatitis B Vaccine: Your Best Protection
The Hepatitis B vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent infection. It stimulates the body to produce antibodies against the virus, giving long-term protection.
It is essential for:
- Newborn babies (part of Bangladesh EPI program)
- Healthcare workers
- Adults with chronic illnesses
- People at risk due to lifestyle or medical conditions
Is it Necessary to Take a Hepatitis B Vaccine?
Yes. The Hepatitis B vaccine is strongly recommended for all age groups. For newborns, it can prevent lifelong infection. For adults, it can prevent chronic liver disease, which often shows symptoms only after irreversible damage. According to WHO and the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) in Bangladesh, early vaccination is the most effective method of controlling the spread of the disease.
Hepatitis B Vaccine Name
There are several brands of Hepatitis B vaccines available in Bangladesh, both locally produced and imported. The most common ones include:
- HB-fix (by Healthcare Pharmaceuticals Ltd.)
- Hepa-B (by Incepta Pharmaceuticals)
- Hepavax-B (by Popular Pharmaceuticals)
- Engerix-B (imported, by GSK)
All of these are recombinant DNA vaccines, meaning they are made using modern biotechnology and are considered safe and effective.
Hepatitis B Vaccine Dose
The standard Hepatitis B vaccine dose depends on the recipient’s age:
- Adults: 1 ml (20 mcg)
- Children (0–19 years): 0.5 ml (10 mcg)
These doses are typically administered in pre-filled syringes or vials.
Hepatitis B Vaccine Dose for Adults
Adults receive three doses:
- First dose: Day 0
- Second dose: After 1 month
- Third dose: After 6 months from the first dose
In certain high-risk situations, an accelerated schedule (0, 1, 2 months + booster at 12 months) is also used.
Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedule
Different vaccine schedules are depending on the person’s age and medical condition:
Standard 3-Dose Schedule (for adults and children >1 year):
- Dose 1: At any chosen date
- Dose 2: 1 month after first dose
- Dose 3: 6 months after first dose
Birth Dose Schedule (For infants):
- First dose: Within 24 hours of birth
- Additional doses given as part of Bangladesh’s Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI)
Hepatitis B Vaccine Booster
For most healthy people who complete the 3-dose schedule, a booster dose is not required. However, a booster may be recommended for:
- Healthcare workers
- People with weakened immune systems
- Dialysis patients
- People who received their last dose over 10 years ago and show low antibody levels
Your doctor can perform a blood test to check your anti-HBs antibody level to determine if a booster is needed.
HBs Test: How to Know If You’re Infected
Before getting the vaccine, some adults choose to take an HBsAg or HBs test to check for current or past Hepatitis B infection.
- HBsAg (Hepatitis B surface antigen) test detects active infection
- Anti-HBs test shows if you are protected (from vaccination or past infection)
These tests are usually available at diagnostic centers and hospitals across Bangladesh.
Hepatitis B Injection: What to Expect
The Hepatitis B vaccine is administered via intramuscular injection, usually in the upper arm (deltoid muscle) for adults and the thigh for infants.
Hepatitis B Vaccine Side Effects
Most people tolerate the vaccine well. Common mild side effects include:
- Pain at the injection site
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
Serious allergic reactions are infrequent. The benefits far outweigh the minimal risks.
How Much Does Hepatitis B Vaccine Cost?
The cost of the Hepatitis B vaccine varies based on the brand, dosage, and whether you are getting it from a private clinic or through a public health center.
Hepatitis B Vaccine Price in Bangladesh
The Hepatitis B vaccine price in Bangladesh varies depending on the brand and dosage. As of 2025, adult single-dose vaccines typically cost between BDT 450 and 1,000. For example, HB-fix (1 ml) is priced at BDT 500–550, Hepa-B (1 ml) at BDT 450–520, Hepavax-B (1 ml) at BDT 480–550, and the imported Engerix-B (1 ml) ranges from BDT 800–1,000. These are 20 mcg doses intended for adults. For children, the 0.5 ml (10 mcg) dose generally costs around BDT 300–400. A complete 3-dose course can cost between BDT 1,300 and 2,500 depending on the vaccine brand and provider. Vaccines are available through trusted sources such as Pledge to Protect, local diagnostic centers, hospitals, and registered pharmacies across Bangladesh.
Where to Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine in Bangladesh
You can get vaccinated at various government and private facilities:
Government Health Facilities:
- Upazila Health Complexes
- District Hospitals
- Community Clinics
- EPI centers (for infants)
Private Sector:
- Private hospitals and clinics (e.g., Square Hospital, United Hospital, etc.)
- Vaccination programs by Pledge to Protect and other partners
- Diagnostic centers and travel health clinics
Always ensure the vaccine is stored in the proper cold-chain conditions and administered by a qualified healthcare provider.
Why Getting the Hepatitis B Vaccine Is Important
- Prevents liver damage: Reduces risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer
- Protects others: You won’t pass the virus to family or colleagues
- Safe and proven: Millions of people globally have been vaccinated
- One-time effort, lifetime benefit (for most people)
In Bangladesh, Hepatitis B remains underdiagnosed, and vaccination is your best chance to stay protected, especially if you are an adult who missed childhood immunizations.
Protect Your Health Today
The Hepatitis B vaccine is one of the most effective tools we have to fight a major public health threat in Bangladesh. It’s affordable, widely available, and safe for all ages.
Don’t wait for symptoms to show up—Hepatitis B can silently damage your liver over many years. Whether you’re a parent, a healthcare worker, or simply a responsible adult, getting vaccinated is a smart and caring choice.
Need Help with Vaccination? Call Pledge to Protect at 01844-245339 for consultation, vaccine availability, and booking.
FAQs related to Hepatitis b vaccine
Q: Is the Hepatitis B vaccine safe?
A: Yes, it is WHO-approved and safe for all age groups.
Q: Can I get the vaccine if I had Hepatitis B before?
A: No, vaccination is not necessary if you had the infection and recovered. A blood test can confirm.
Q: Can pregnant women take the vaccine?
A: Yes, but it should be discussed with your doctor first.
Q: Is the vaccine part of the government program?
A: Yes, for newborns. Adults need to get it from private providers.
Q: Is a booster required every 5 years?
A: Not usually, but your doctor may recommend a booster based on your health and antibody levels.
