| The hepatitis B vaccine prevents infection with the hepatitis B virus, which can cause serious problems, including liver damage, liver cancer, or even death. Over 1.2 million people in the United States are chronically infected with the hepatitis B virus. Children under eighteen should receive three doses of this vaccine.
Children who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to baker's yeast or to a previous dose of hepatitis B vaccine should not receive this vaccine.
Mild problems and side effects that can occur after receiving hepatitis B vaccine, include, soreness where the shot was given or mild to moderate fever. Severe reactions are very rare, but can include serious allergic reactions.
Another possible, but not proven, side effect that has been reported after immunization with the Hepatitis B vaccine is the development of lichen planus. Lichen planus is a skin condition that causes itchy, purple, flat topped papuples on the wrist and back of the elbows. Although the rash usually goes away on its own in 9-18 months, treatment with topical steroid creams may be effective.
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