Hepatitis B Vaccine Risks

As with any medicine, there are very small risks that serious problems, even death, could occur after getting a vaccine. Getting the disease is much more likely to cause serious illness than getting the vaccine.

A person may experience soreness where the shot was given or mild to moderate fever. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen (non-aspirin) may be used to reduce fever and pain.

Serious allergic reaction is very rare. If serious reactions occur, call a doctor or get the person to a doctor right away. Ask your doctor, nurse or health department to file a Vaccine Adverse Event Report form or call (800) 822-7967 (toll-free)

The National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program gives compensation for persons thought to be injured by vaccines. For details call (800) 338-2382. If you want to learn more, ask your doctor or nurse. They can give you the vaccine package insert or suggest other sources of information.