What is the recommended treatment for HBV exposure in individuals with unknown immunity?

The recommended treatment for individuals exposed to Hepatitis B virus (HBV) who have unknown immunity is to administer both Hepatitis B Immune Globulin (HBIG) and the Hepatitis B vaccine series. This combination approach is crucial because it provides immediate passive immunity through HBIG while also stimulating the development of active immunity through the vaccination.

HBIG contains pre-formed antibodies against HBV, which can neutralize the virus and prevent infection if administered promptly after exposure. Simultaneously, the vaccine series elicits an adaptive immune response, leading to the production of antibodies that will provide long-term protection against future exposure to HBV.

For individuals with unknown immunity, it is especially important to use both treatments, as the vaccine alone may be insufficient to provide immediate protection, particularly in high-risk exposure scenarios. Therefore, the combination of HBIG and the vaccine series optimally minimizes the risk of HBV infection following exposure.