Why is the hepatitis B vaccine given so soon after birth?

Hepatitis B can be passed from mother to baby during delivery. Giving the first dose within 24 hours of birth provides critical early protection before any exposure can occur.

If my baby is getting Pentavalent, does it still need separate HepB doses?

The Pentavalent vaccine includes hepatitis B protection for the later doses. However, the birth dose of HepB is still given separately because Pentavalent is not given until 6 weeks of age.

Vaccinesingle

HepB

Protects against hepatitis B, given starting at birth.

Reviewed by TinyDose editorial teamLast reviewed June 2026

Also known as: Hep B vaccine · Engerix-B

Protects against

Hepatitis B

How given

Injection, usually in the thigh in newborns.

Doses

A birth dose, with further doses given through combination vaccines at 6, 10 and 14 weeks.

Reactions

Usually mild

The hepatitis B vaccine protects against a viral liver infection that can become long-term (chronic) if caught in infancy. A birth dose is important because it helps prevent transmission from mother to baby. It is also built into the Pentavalent and Hexavalent combination vaccines.

What it protects against

Hepatitis B

When it's given

Birth · Birth dose

Government of India

Birth · Birth dose

Indian Academy of Pediatrics

Ages follow India schedules. Your pediatrician may adjust timing for your child.

How it's given

Injection, usually in the thigh in newborns.

Side effects & safety

Mild soreness at the injection site is the most common effect and settles on its own.

How babies usually reactUsually mild

Most babies have little or no reaction. Any soreness or fever tends to be brief.

When to call your doctor: if fever exceeds 40°C, lasts more than 2 days, or your child seems unusually unwell.

Alternatives & related vaccines

PentavalentA single shot protecting against five infections, including hepatitis B and Hib.HexavalentA single shot protecting against six infections, including polio and hepatitis B.

Common questions

Sources

Hepatitis B vaccines: WHO position paper · WHO, 2017.

Information on this page is compiled from authoritative public health sources and written in TinyDose's own voice. It is intended for general understanding only. Always follow your pediatrician's guidance.

Track HepB doses and every other vaccine in your child's schedule, with reminders before each visit.

Free on iOS and Android.

App Store Google Play Learn more →

Other vaccines

BCG OPV IPV DTaP All vaccines →

This information is provided by TinyDose for general understanding only and is not medical advice. Vaccine names, ages and doses can vary by country, brand and individual circumstances. Always follow the guidance of your pediatrician or local health authority for your child’s vaccination schedule.