The new hepatitis B vaccine. How, when, and why to use it

A hepatitis B vaccine derived from the plasma of carriers of hepatitis B virus has recently become generally available in the United States. Its use is recommended in groups considered to be at high risk of hepatitis B because of their exposure to potentially infectious blood, saliva, or semen. Experience in more than 12,000 patients to date indicates that the vaccine is safe, effective, and free of major side effects.