Hepatitis vaccination for healthcare workers protects against which viral agent(s)?

The hepatitis vaccination for healthcare workers specifically protects against Hepatitis B Virus (HBV). The HBV vaccine is a recombinant vaccine that effectively stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the virus, thereby providing immunity.

Healthcare workers are at higher risk of exposure to blood-borne pathogens, including HBV, through their interactions with patients and the handling of potentially infectious materials. Vaccination is an essential prevention strategy to reduce the incidence of HBV infection in this population.

While other hepatitis viruses, such as Hepatitis C (HCV), Hepatitis D (HDV), and Hepatitis E (HEV), are important, the HBV vaccine does not target these. Hepatitis C does not currently have a vaccine available, Hepatitis D occurs only in those already infected with HBV, and Hepatitis E is not transmitted through blood exposure commonly encountered in healthcare settings. Therefore, the vaccination program specifically aimed at healthcare workers focuses on conferring protection against HBV, making it the correct response.