A child aged 10 years needs hepatitis B vaccination. Her vaccination records are lost. She tests anti-HBs negative and HBsAg negative. Which of the following schedules is appropriate for her primary hepatitis B immunization?
- A Standard 3-dose schedule at 0, 1, and 6 months using pediatric-dose (10 mcg) vaccine for children under 11 years ✓
- B Single dose of HBsAg vaccine suffices in children above 5 years
- C Two-dose schedule (0 and 6 months) using adult-dose (20 mcg) HBV vaccine
- D 3-dose accelerated schedule at 0, 7, and 21 days followed by booster at 12 months
Correct answer: A. Standard 3-dose schedule at 0, 1, and 6 months using pediatric-dose (10 mcg) vaccine for children under 11 years
Explanation
For unvaccinated children under 11 years requiring primary hepatitis B vaccination, the standard 3-dose schedule of 0, 1, and 6 months using the pediatric dose (10 mcg/0.5 mL) is recommended. Children ≥11 years and adults use the adult dose (20 mcg/1 mL). The 2-dose schedule is specifically validated for adolescents (11-15 years) using adult-dose Engerix-B at 0 and 4-6 months. Accelerated schedules (HAVRIX-type 0, 7, 21 days + 12-month booster) are for Hepatitis A, not B.
Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.