Immunogenic effect of inactivated hepatitis B vaccine: Comparison of 20 μg and 40 μg doses

Abstract

The immunogenic effect of inactivated hepatitis B vaccine (Merck Heptavax B) was evaluated in 202 seronegative healthy medical personnel. Three inoculations of vaccine were given at 1‐month intervals. Of 116 vaccinees who received a 40‐μg dose, 39% had an anti‐HBs response 1 month after the first dose, 88% 1 month after the second dose, and 99% 1 month after the third dose. Of 86 vaccinees who received a 20‐μg dose, 40% had an anti‐HBs response 1 month after the first dose, 79% after the second dose, and 95% after the third dose. These results confirm the high immunogenic effect of a 20‐μg dose of vaccine.