About Immunisation

Immunisation involves three injections over a six month period. After the initial injection, injections are recommended to be given at one month and six months. The vaccination course is followed by a blood test about eight weeks after the third injection. The blood test results are provided to the CFA Medical Officer who will advise if the individual had achieved a positive blood test for Hepatitis B surface antibody.

This test ensures that the appropriate level of immunity (antibody) has been reached. Generally three vaccinations are sufficient to gain the required immunity. However, a small number of people require further injection(s)

Previously a booster vaccination may have been required after five years, depending on antibody levels attained. CFA’s Medical Officer has advised that following a recommendation from the National Health and Medical Research Council, booster doses of Hepatitis B vaccine are not required where a person has completed their full course of vaccinations, undergone the subsequent blood test and have been advised they have a positive blood test for hepatitis B surface antibody.

Where an individual’s blood test indicated they had not achieved a positive blood test for Hepatitis B surface antibody, the CFA Medical Officer would advise of the appropriate action. This may simply involve one more vaccination being provided.

A person's immune response to the vaccination can be adversely affected by increasing age, weight or cigarette smoking history. The vaccine should not be given to people who have a proven yeast allergy or to pregnant women. People who have other significant medical conditions should discuss vaccination with their doctor or contact the CFA Medical Officer.

On rare occasions there are people who do not respond to the vaccine, called non-responders, and they require personalised advice regarding their further management.

It should be remembered that vaccination against Hepatitis B provides most people with the required level of immunity.

However:

• Vaccination does not provide protection against other infectious diseases
• Vaccination is no excuse for carelessness or failing to strictly adhere to the accepted Universal Precautions.

After Immunisation

For those personnel receiving vaccinations it is important that the following information is provided to the regions to ensure the effectiveness of this program,

• Name
• Brigade / Unit
• Date of each vaccination
• Vaccine brand and batch number
• Site of injection (deltoid muscle of the shoulder is recommended)
• Name of person giving injection
• Date of test