Hep B vaccination

I had the whole series of the Hep B vaccination. I had some blood work done and I am showing nonreactive for the Hep B antibody.  I know this means that I need to get it done again, especially considering I am positive for Hep C and I work in the healthcare field, but what are the chances that it won't work either?

[Bill1954]

I dind't develop antibodies two times, using the Twinrix vaccine; I wonder if this might help both of us:

http://www.hivandhepatitis.com/hep_b/news/2008/082908_a.html

Bill

[jdwithhcv]

I did not develpo antibodies to Hep B after the vaccine.  My PCP recommends against taking that vaccine again.  

[Bill1954]

This might be of interest as well:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hepatitis_B_vaccine

“Response to vaccination
Following the primary course of 3 vaccinations, a blood test may be taken after an interval of 1–4 months to establish if there has been an adequate response, which is defined as an anti-hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-Hbs) antibody level above 100 mIU/ml. Such a full response occurs in about 85-90% of individuals.[8]

An antibody level between 10 and 100 mIU/ml is considered a poor response, and these people should receive a single booster vaccination at this time, but do not need further retesting.[8]

People who fail to respond (anti-Hbs antibody level below 10 mIU/ml) should be tested to exclude current or past Hepatitis B infection, and given a repeat course of 3 vaccinations, followed by further retesting 1–4 months after the second course. Those who still do not respond to a second course of vaccination may respond to a high dose of vaccine or to intradermal administration.[9][10][11] Those who still fail to respond will require hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) if later exposed to the hepatitis B virus.[8]

Poor responses are mostly associated with being over the age of 40 years, obesity and smoking,[12] and also in alcoholics, especially if with advanced liver disease.[13] Patients who are immunosuppressed or on renal dialysis may respond less well and require larger or more frequent doses of vaccine.[8] At least one study suggests that hepatitis B vaccination is less effective in patients with HIV.[14]”

Bill

[Myown]

My B vaccine didn't take first round either. I tried again in between my next tx..If my memory serves me, the doctor gave me double dose this next time and it worked.

My hepatologist believes even my husband should get the vaccine. Due to going to the dentist etc - just to play it safe. I mentioned that to another Hepatologist and he just rolled his eyes and thought it wasn't necessary.  But I want him to get the vaccine. Whether or not he will listen is another story.