The hepatitis A vaccine (Havrix) contains inactivated hepatitis A virus adsorbed onto aluminium hydroxide. Which statement correctly describes the classification and immunology of this vaccine?
- A It is a live attenuated vaccine that induces mucosal IgA production
- B It is a whole-virus inactivated vaccine that induces serum IgG antibodies against viral capsid proteins ✓
- C It is a subunit vaccine containing recombinant HAV VP1 protein expressed in yeast
- D It is a conjugate vaccine linking HAV polysaccharide to a carrier protein
Correct answer: B. It is a whole-virus inactivated vaccine that induces serum IgG antibodies against viral capsid proteins
Explanation
Havrix and other hepatitis A vaccines (Vaqta) are whole-virus inactivated vaccines. Hepatitis A virus is grown in MRC-5 human diploid cells, purified, formalin-inactivated, and adsorbed onto aluminium hydroxide. Immunization induces serum IgG antibodies against HAV capsid proteins (particularly VP1), providing systemic protection. It is not a subunit, conjugate, or live attenuated vaccine.
Reference: Plotkin's Vaccines, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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