An asymptomatic neonate is born to an HBsAg-positive mother. What is the correct prophylactic regimen within the first 12 hours of birth?

• A Hepatitis B vaccine alone within 12 hours
• B Hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) alone within 12 hours
• C HBIG within 12 hours followed by vaccine at 1 month
• D Both hepatitis B vaccine AND HBIG at separate sites within 12 hours ✓

Explanation

When a neonate is born to an HBsAg-positive mother, both hepatitis B vaccine (0.5 mL IM) AND hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG 0.5 mL IM) must be given within 12 hours of birth at separate injection sites to provide immediate passive and long-term active immunity. Together they reduce vertical transmission by >90%. Vaccine alone has lower efficacy in high viral-load mothers. HBIG alone without vaccine provides only temporary passive protection.

Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.