Prioritizing one’s health is an important decision that everyone must practice. With the rising cases of health risks in the Philippines, it is only natural to find treatment options that can ensure protection. Vaccines play a huge role in this aspect, which healthcare providers have always promoted as a form of defense no matter what the disease is. For instance, hepatitis b has been an ongoing health risk to mothers and their children. Thus, the need for more sources about how to get vaccinated. Fortunately, this blog entails the hepatitis b vaccine prices in the Philippines, which can help patients to have a brief knowledge on what to expect about this form of protection from hepatitis b virus.
If you are one step away from building your family, it is important to be vigilant for your children. Discover everything about the hepatitis b vaccines, especially their prices for future reference. Let’s begin!
Understanding Hepatitis B and Its Vaccine
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver. It is transmitted through contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person. Also, babies can also get infected if passed from an infected mother to her newborn during childbirth. With this threat in a patient’s life, it is important to secure an effective treatment option to prevent the transmission of the disease. That’s why vaccines for hepatitis b are created to help stop the possible rise of cases in the family and community.
By undergoing hepatitis b immunization, it can stimulate the immune system and produce antibodies that can fight off the virus. Vaccination is especially important for individuals at higher risk of infection, such as healthcare workers, people with multiple sexual partners, and those who travel to areas with high Hepatitis B prevalence.
The Importance of Hepatitis B Vaccination
As mentioned, hepatitis b virus is a common health risk to a wide range of adult individuals. With the possible threats surrounding this demographic, it is important to get the vaccine for hepatitis b.
By getting vaccinated, individuals can protect themselves from contracting the virus and lower their chances of developing chronic liver disease, liver failure, or liver cancer. Vaccination also helps in preventing the transmission of the virus to others, especially within households and healthcare settings.
It is important to note that Hepatitis B vaccination is typically administered as a series of doses to ensure long-term protection. Staying up to date with the recommended vaccine schedule and completing the full series is essential for maximum effectiveness.
Hepatitis B Vaccine Price and Dosage
The prices of Hepatitis B vaccines in the Philippines can vary depending on several factors. These factors include the brand of the vaccine, the dosage required, and the healthcare provider administering the vaccine. On average, the cost of Hepatitis B vaccines in the Philippines ranges from PHP 850 to PHP 1,600.
It is important to note that these prices are estimates and may be subject to change based on the overall supply and demand. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider or check with local clinics and hospitals for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are 3 types of Hepatitis B vaccines available, each offering protection against the Hepatitis B virus. These vaccines are developed using different technologies and may vary in terms of dosage, schedule, and age recommendations. The three main types of Hepatitis B vaccines are recombinant, plasma-derived, and combination (DTaP).
Recombinant Hepatitis B vaccine
This is the most commonly used type of Hepatitis B vaccine. It is made using a recombinant DNA technology that involves inserting a gene from the Hepatitis B virus into yeast cells. The yeast cells then produce a protein that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the Hepatitis B virus. There are 2 recombinant vaccines used in the Philippines, which are Engerix B and GeneVac B.
Engerix B vaccine is a vaccine formulated to fight off infection caused by hepatitis B virus. Individuals of 0 to 19 years old must only receive a 0.5 mL per dose during the 0-1-6 months schedule. Meanwhile, for patients at the age of 20 and up years old, they must receive a higher amount which is 1 mL per dose in the same time frame for vaccine schedule.
GeneVac B is also a vaccine formulated as an active immunization for patients that are considered at risk for getting hepatitis B. Just like the first type, patients in the age of 0 to 19 yrs old have a certain amount of dosage needed, which is 0.5 mL. Meanwhile, 20 years old and older patients must have 1 mL dose. Although, take note that infant patients are recommended to take the vaccine during the 6-10-14 week schedule for immunization. At the same time, children to adult patients must follow the 0-1-6 months schedule for vaccines.
Plasma-derived Hepatitis B Vaccine
This type of vaccine is produced using plasma collected from individuals who have been immunized against Hepatitis B. The plasma is processed to remove any potential contaminants and then used to create the vaccine. One of the known vaccines under this type is the Heptavax, which was introduced in 1981.
Although, take note that this type of vaccine for hepatitis B is no longer available. Experts discontinued its use in the year 1990, and was replaced by recombinant vaccine. This vaccine is replaced by a new formulated vaccine, which is the recombinant type. That’s why if you are looking for alternative vaccines for a lower hepatitis b vaccine price, this option is not available.
Combination Vaccines
Some vaccines combine protection against Hepatitis B with protection against other diseases, such as Hepatitis A or diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP). This hepatitis vaccine offers the convenience of receiving multiple vaccinations in a single shot.
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate type of Hepatitis B vaccine.
Booster Shots: Are They Necessary?
Booster shots for Hepatitis B vaccination are generally not necessary for the majority of individuals. The Hepatitis B vaccine is known to provide long-lasting immunity for at least 20 year. However, certain groups may benefit from periodic testing of antibody levels and, if necessary, a booster dose to ensure ongoing protection. These groups include healthcare workers, individuals with medical conditions like chronic kidney disease or liver disease, and those who are immunocompromised.
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if a booster dose is recommended. Regular monitoring of antibody levels and adherence to the recommended vaccine schedule can help ensure continued protection against Hepatitis B.
Where to Get Vaccinated for Hepatitis B
Getting vaccinated for Hepatitis B is a straightforward process. There are various healthcare facilities in the Philippines where individuals can receive the vaccine. It is important to choose a reputable healthcare facility to ensure the vaccine is administered safely and effectively.
Here are some options for where to get vaccinated for Hepatitis B:
- Government health centers: Many private sector health centers offer Hepatitis B vaccination services for a lower cost or for free.
- Private clinics and hospitals: Private clinics and hospitals also provide Hepatitis B vaccination services, typically at a higher cost.
- Barangay health centers: Residents can also inquire at their local barangay health centers for information on Hepatitis B vaccination services.
On the other hand, patients can also try researching online platforms to schedule vaccination sessions with ease. There are various online consultations in the Philippines where doctors provide their vaccination services for adults and children.
NowServing PH is an example that can provide easier scheduling for hepatitis b vaccines. Aside from that, they also provide other vaccines such as for rabies intervention, flu, pertussis, etc.
Health Insurance and Vaccine Coverage
HMO or health insurance plays a crucial role in covering the costs of vaccines. Most HMO plans provide coverage for vaccinations, including the Hepatitis B vaccine. However, the extent of coverage may vary depending on the insurance provider and the specific plan.
That’s why it is important to check with your health insurance provider to understand the coverage details for vaccines. Doing so will help you feel at ease about whether or not the hepatitis b vaccine price will be covered by your provider.
If you currently don’t have an HMO plan, you might want to consider availing one for future medical expenses. At the same time, it will help to have an easier transaction with your doctor, especially in terms of vaccinations. Here’s a link of providers you might want to check out for your next hepatitis b vaccine session. Make sure to prepare the needed documentation for applying on a certain health insurance plan.
Remember, each insurance company may have different procedures and requirements, so it is essential to communicate with them directly to ensure a smooth reimbursement process for vaccine costs.
Conclusion
When it comes to safety and protection from health complications, vaccines are one of the go-to options that experts recommend to people. That’s why with the constant threat from hepatitis b virus, receiving the immunization is important. While some people’s concern is the hepatitis b vaccine price, what matters the most is its effectiveness in protecting patients against hepatitis b virus.
So, if you are wondering about the hepatitis b vaccine price, we found that the common range is PHP 850 to PHP 1,600. Although, not all clinics offer the same price due to the mentioned factor that can affect the hepatitis b vaccine price. It’s best to visit a healthcare provider for a more accurate range of price.
Book an online consultation with a hepatologist or visit a local health center near you!
