Legal Documents of Jefferson City

For an exposure to a source individual found to be positive for HBsAg, the worker who has not previously been given the hepatitis B vaccine should receive the vaccine series. A single dose of hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) is also recommended, if it can be given within seven (7) days of exposure.

For exposure from an HBsAg-positive source to workers who have previously received the vaccine, the exposed worker should be tested for antibodies to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs), and given one dose of vaccine and one dose of HBIG if the antibody level in the worker's blood sample is inadequate (ie., 10 SRU by RIA, negative by EIA).

If the source individual is negative for HBsAg and the worker has not been vaccinated, this opportunity should be taken to provide the hepatitis B vaccine series. HBIG administration should be considered on an individual basis when the source individual is known or suspected to be at high risk of HBV infection. Management and treatment, if any, of previously vaccinated workers who receive an exposure from a source who refuses testing or is not identifiable should be individualized. (1996 Code, § 8-503(3))