hepatitis B surface antigen vaccine: when to get help
Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services immediately for difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, collapse, severe weakness, or other signs of a serious allergic reaction.
And for anyone, someone who:
has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek urgent medical advice if you develop extensive swelling, persistent high fever, or symptoms that concern you after leaving the vaccination site.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Contact your healthcare team during routine hours if injection-site pain, swelling, fever, or other symptoms are getting worse rather than improving.
Also contact them if you missed a dose, lost your vaccination record, or are unsure when the next dose is due.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on hepatitis B surface antigen vaccine. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.