What is the recommended action for a newborn with a mother who is HBsAg positive?

For a newborn whose mother is HBsAg positive, the recommended action involves administering both hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) and the hepatitis B vaccine. The reason this dual approach is vital is that it provides immediate passive immunity through HBIG and active immunity through the vaccination, significantly reducing the risk of the newborn acquiring hepatitis B from the mother.

When a mother is positive for the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), there is a substantial risk of transmission to the newborn during delivery. Administering HBIG within 12 hours after birth provides immediate protection against the virus. Following this, the hepatitis B vaccine is administered to ensure the developing immune system can build a protective response to the virus over time.

This strategy is part of the standard protocol recommended by guidelines from organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). It is essential to take these steps promptly to prevent infection and ensure the long-term health of the newborn.

Other options either do not provide adequate protection, such as giving only the vaccine or just HBIG, or even suggest inappropriate action like sending the baby home without intervention. The combination of both HBIG and the hepatitis B vaccine is crucial to safeguarding the newborn's