Question

A 29-year-old pregnant woman at 28 weeks' gestation is known to be hepatitis B surface antigen positive with high viral load. What is the most appropriate strategy to reduce vertical transmission to her baby?

Accepted Answer

Commence antiviral therapy in the third trimester and ensure the newborn receives hepatitis B vaccine plus hepatitis B immunoglobulin at birth

Answer

No intervention is needed until after birth

Answer

Elective caesarean section at 38 weeks only

Answer

Delay hepatitis B vaccination until 6 weeks of age

Answer

Breastfeeding is contraindicated and should be avoided

Practice question

A 29-year-old pregnant woman at 28 weeks' gestation is known to be hepatitis B surface antigen positive with high viral load. What is the most appropriate strategy to reduce vertical transmission to her baby?