Who should receive immune globulin to prevent hepatitis A?
For individuals who should not get the vaccine, or if vaccine is not available, a “shot” called an immune globulin can be given. Immune globulin is a sterile preparation of antibodies that can lower the risk of infection for about 3 to 5 months. Also, people with a weakened immune system or chronic liver disease should be given one dose of immune globulin. Household members, day-care contacts or others in close personal contact with an infected person should call a doctor or their local health department to obtain information about receiving preventive treatment to reduce the risk of becoming ill. In normal working and classroom situations (except day-care centers), contacts do not need to receive immune globulin or vaccine.
