Question
What if I don't get a response to the HepB vaccine?
11 May 2009. Related: All topics, Complications and coinfections, Living with HIV long-term, Starting treatment.
Thank you for all the info you supply to keep us up-to-date.
For the last 3-4 years I have had all doses of Hep B vaccine and the last result in Feb 09 showed that I have not responding to the vaccines.
Is there another alternative to these vaccines? I am a general nurse and about to complete my social work degree. The advise I was given was to avoid exposure-prone procedures but I do not inted to continue with nursing after my degree.
Answer
Hi
As it sounds like you have tried more intensive vaccine schedules without much success, the only other option I can think of is to try them again later if you get a higher CD4 count from using HIV treatment.
The probability of getting a response from any vaccine is often related to your CD4 count, this may make a difference.
You didn’t say whether you were already on treatment, so this may or may not be appropriate.
As for your risk at work, there should be professional guidance for all nurses to minimise health risks. If you are worried about any increased risk due to the vaccine not working, then perhaps ask for this to be taken into account for the remainder of your work placement.
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