Have you been shot?

This evening I got my third and final vaccine shot to protect me against Hepatitis B. The hepatitis B vaccine series includes three shots that are given over a six month period. In case you haven’t had your shots yet, I recommend you have a word with your doctor on where & how you can get yourself vaccinated.

Here are a few facts from The Hepatitis B Foundation:

* What is hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is the world’s most common liver infection. It is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which attacks and injures the liver. It is transmitted through blood, unprotected sex, shared or re-used needles, and from an infected mother to her newborn baby during delivery. Most infected adults are able to get rid of the hepatitis B virus without any problems. However, some adults and most infected babies and children are unable to get rid of the virus and will develop chronic infections.

The good news is that there is a safe vaccine to prevent a hepatitis B infection and new treatments for those already infected with hepatitis B.

* What is the hepatitis B vaccine?

The hepatitis B vaccine is the first anti-cancer vaccine because it prevents hepatitis B, which can lead to liver cancer.

* Who should be vaccinated?

All newborn babies should be vaccinated, especially if the mother is of Asian descent or if a pregnant woman knows she has hepatitis B. All children up to age 18 years should be vaccinated as well. Most states now require the hepatitis B vaccine for school entry. Many colleges are requiring the vaccine for its students. Although everyone is at some risk, there are some people who are at higher risk. Adults of Asian descent should seriously consider being tested and vaccinated and should make sure their babies and children are properly vaccinated.

Hepatitis B can be prevented through vaccination - it only take three shots to protect yourself and loved ones for a lifetime against hepatitis B, which can lead to liver cancer later in life.

Hope this inspires you to get your vaccination process started asap!