Evaluation of an Accelerated Hepatitis B Vaccination Schedule in Post-Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Pediatric Patients.

Revaccination in pediatric post-hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) patients is important for preventing vaccine-preventable infections. Published guidelines recommend revaccination based on time elapsed post-transplant, though the optimal timing remains unclear. Since May 2019, our institution adopted an accelerated revaccination schedule commencing 6 months post-HSCT and we report our experience. Our study supports the accelerated revaccination schedule, as most pediatric patients were able to mount sufficient immune responses using hepatitis B seroconversion as a surrogate. With the accelerated revaccination schedule, this could also potentially shorten the vulnerable period where patients are at risk of severe vaccine-preventable infections.