3 shot immunization process

[flaminhotsheep]

I started the 3 shot hepatitis B immunizations a long time ago. I think it was like 2002. I never got the 3rd shot. Now I need to get it in order to get into a nursing program. So did the other shots expire? Do I need to start the process over? Or can I just get the third one and that's it?

[pregpos]

If I began the vaccine series and never completed it, do I have to start the entire series over again?

According to guidelines created by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
you do not have to restart the vaccine series if you received only one or two doses - even if it has been a few years since your last dose of the vaccine. You only need to complete the series by getting the remaining shot(s).

[kjmomma]

No.  You do not need to restart the series.  2 doses provides about 75% immunity; however, I would say that immunity has waned since 2002.  You will have to check with the doctor to see what he/she says.

[cajim]

What should be done if hepatitis B vaccine series was not completed?

Talk to your health professional to resume the vaccine series as soon as possible.  The series does not need to be restarted.