Free Hepatitis B Vaccination Now Available in Haikou for Adults Aged 20–50
Hepatitis B remains a major public health issue in China, with an estimated 75 million people testing positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), a marker of chronic infection or carrier status.
This represents roughly one-third of the global burden of chronic hepatitis B. However, widespread immunization programs, particularly those targeting infants, have led to a significant drop in prevalence.
Today, the HBsAg rate in the general population has declined to around 5.86%, signalling real progress in controlling the disease. To further close the immunity gap among adults, Haikou is launching a free hepatitis B vaccination campaign for residents aged 20 to 50.
Program Overview
The Haikou Municipal Health Commission announced that beginning April 10, eligible residents, those born between January 1, 1975, and December 31, 2004 can receive a free hepatitis B vaccine at local community health clinics. The initiative is part of Hainan Province’s 2025 public welfare projects aimed at improving access to essential healthcare services.
Vaccination is the safest, most effective, and most affordable way to prevent hepatitis B. According to the Commission, the vaccine offers more than 95% protection against infection and can reduce hepatitis B–related deaths by 85% to 95%.
Who Is Eligible?
The program is open to Haikou residents aged 20 to 50 who:
- Have never received a hepatitis B vaccine, or
- Lack protective antibodies against the hepatitis B virus (HBV)
People with medical contraindications to vaccination are not eligible and should consult their doctor before proceeding, (contraindication is a medical term used for a specific situation or factor that makes a procedure or course of treatment inadvisable because it may be harmful to a person).
How the Vaccine Is Administered
The vaccination follows a three-dose “0-1-6” schedule:
- The second dose is given at least one month after the first.
- The third dose is given at least five months after the second.
- All three doses must be completed within one year.
What to Know Before You Go
Booking and Locations: Vaccinations must be scheduled in advance. A list of participating clinics is available via QR code or at your local community health center.
Documents Required: Bring valid ID (ID card, household registration booklet, or passport) for eligibility verification.
On the Day of Vaccination: Wear loose-fitting clothes for easy access to the injection site. Disclose your health condition and any known allergies or contraindications during pre-screening.
After Your Shot: Remain in the observation area for 30 minutes to monitor for any immediate reactions.
Keep the injection site clean and avoid scratching.
If you experience a fever, rash, or other symptoms, seek medical attention and inform the vaccination clinic.
Why Hepatitis B Vaccination Matter
Hepatitis B is a serious viral infection that can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, or liver cancer. While treatments exist, there is no cure, and management often involves long-term antiviral medication. Vaccination is the best line of defense.
This campaign provides a rare opportunity for unprotected adults to gain lifelong immunity at no cost. If you’re eligible, protect your health, get vaccinated!
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