Twinrix Junior Vaccine

Who is this for?

This is a combination vaccine that contains inactivated (killed) Hepatitis A virus and a part of the Hepatitis B virus surface protein. It works by training your body's immune system to recognize and fight both Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B infections before you ever get sick.

Activates humoral and cellular immune responses by presenting inactivated Hepatitis A antigen and recombinant Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) to B and T lymphocytes, stimulating production of protective antibodies (anti-HAV and anti-HBs) and memory cells against both viruses. This immunization prevents viral attachment to hepatocyte receptors and establishment of infection in the liver.

Is Hepatitis safe to take with another drug?

This is given as an injection by a healthcare worker, usually in the upper arm. For adults (16 years and above), the standard schedule is 3 doses — the first dose now, the second dose after 1 month, and the third dose after 6 months. An accelerated schedule (0, 7, and 21 days with a booster at 12 months) is also available for travelers or those who need quick protection.

If you miss a scheduled dose, go to your healthcare provider as soon as possible to get the injection. You do not need to start the series over — just continue from where you stopped. However, for full protection, make sure you complete all 3 doses.

• Pain
• redness
• or swelling at the injection site
• mild headache
• feeling tired or weak
• mild fever
• body aches or general feeling of being unwell

If you are taking drugs that weaken your immune system (such as steroids or cancer treatment drugs), the vaccine may not work as well — inform your doctor. Blood thinners like warfarin may increase bleeding at the injection site, so tell your healthcare provider if you are on any. There are no known food or alcohol interactions, but it is wise to avoid heavy alcohol use around vaccination time.

This vaccine must be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C. Do not freeze it — freezing destroys the vaccine. It should not be left out in Nigerian heat or direct sunlight. This vaccine is handled and stored by healthcare facilities, so make sure you receive it from a reputable hospital, clinic, or pharmacy with proper cold chain storage.