The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that Hepatitis B vaccine be offered to healthcare personnel who have a reasonable expectation of being exposed to blood and body fluids on the job. Reasonable exposure would include positions that potentially put you in contact with percutaneous or mucosal exposure to blood or body fluids including, risk of needle stick or sharps injuries or the testing or handling of blood specimens. It may not be necessary for receptionist, clerical or billing staff to undergo immunization. Please check with your employer for their specific recommendations.
Hepatitis B virus is a totally preventable disease. Following the initial vaccination, a series of vaccinations may be performed that can assure immunity. A Hepatitis B titre may be drawn one to two months following the series to determine if immunity is achieved.
Emergency One provides Hepatitis B vaccinations and titres in adults for at risk occupations. Please contact us for more information at 845.338.5600. Typically, if you have records of the immunization, you do not need to redo the series. However, if you do not have records of the immunization, there is no harm in receiving extra doses of the vaccine to help assure that you are protected from the risk of contracting Hepatitis B.