New Adult Vaccine Found Against Hepatitis B

• US Panel found a new adult vaccine for hepatitis B
• The vaccine is called Heplisav-B
• The vaccine can boost one's body's immunity

A federal advisory panel is recommending a new vaccine against hepatitis B.

The vaccine called Heplisav-B was licensed in November and is the first new hepatitis B vaccine in 25 years.

Also Read: New Study Reveals Indian Population is the Carrier of Hepatitis

Hepatitis B vaccines have been in childhood shots for decades. The new vaccine is for adults.

The hepatitis virus can damage the liver and is spread through contact with blood or other bodily fluids. Cases have been rising, a trend linked to the heroin and opioid epidemic. Meanwhile, researchers found older vaccines falter in diabetics and older adults.

Also Read: Viral hepatitis Caused 1.34 mn Deaths Globally: Study

The new vaccine uses an additive that boosts the body's immune response. It is two shots given over one month.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices endorsed the vaccine Wednesday in Atlanta. The government usually adopts its recommendations. VOA