At what age should the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine be administered?

The first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine should be administered at birth. This timing is critical because it helps to establish early immunity against the hepatitis B virus, which can be particularly dangerous for infants who may be exposed to the virus through various means, including maternal transmission during childbirth. Administering the vaccine at birth provides the infant with the earliest possible protection and is a key component of the recommended immunization schedule.

By giving the first dose shortly after delivery, healthcare providers can ensure that newborns, especially those with mothers who are hepatitis B positive, receive timely intervention, reducing the risk of chronic hepatitis B infection and associated complications later in life. The subsequent doses are scheduled at specific intervals, with additional doses generally given at 1-2 months and 6 months of age, but the initial dose at birth is essential for effective immunization.