In the state of Indiana, it is now required that every child entering grade nine and grade twelve be immunized for the prevention of the hepatitis B infection. HEA 1133 was passed in the 2004 State Legislation session. This law became effective July 1, 2005 and is in effect until July, 2008.

Hepatitis B can be a life-threatening infection that may affect your life forever.

Symptoms include fever, malaise, fatigue, jaundice, abdominal tenderness, and elevated liver enzymes. Some individuals are chronic asymptomatic carriers; chronic hepatitis B may result in liver cirrhosis and/or cancer. HBV can be transmitted by sexual contact, shared needles, or contaminated blood products.

Interferon alpha is used as the vaccination for HBV. Interferon is part of a family of naturally-occurring proteins that are produced by cells of the immune system. This treatment is administered in three doses.

The new vaccine requirement is aimed at ninth graders because they were the students who just missed falling under the umbrella of the 1999 mandatory

hepatitis B vaccination law.

Also by law, it is forbidden for schools to enforce it. The law stipulates “a child may not be prevented from enrolling in, attending or graduating from high school for the sole reason that the child has not been immunized under this.” In other words, you are only strongly encouraged to be immunized. All children who entered kindergarten or first grade since 1999 have been required to have the series of three shots, which are given within a six-month period of time. The shots are routinely given to babies these days.

If you need to be immunized, hepatitis B vaccination is available at your local health department or clinic. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your local school corporation to see how this matter is being resolved.