What is the primary indication for administering Hepatitis B immune globulin in newborns?

The primary indication for administering Hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) in newborns is to prevent vertical transmission of the Hepatitis B virus from an infected mother to her child during the perinatal period. This is particularly critical when a mother is HBsAg positive (indicating active Hepatitis B infection) or has a high viral load.

HBIG works by providing immediate passive immunity to the newborn, neutralizing the virus and reducing the risk of the child becoming chronically infected. In conjunction with the Hepatitis B vaccination given at birth, this strategy is highly effective in preventing the establishment of chronic Hepatitis B infection in infants who are exposed to the virus at birth.

Other scenarios, such as exposure to contaminated blood, travel to endemic regions, or presence of chronic kidney disease, do not specifically warrant the use of HBIG in newborns. They may require different interventions or vaccines, but they do not address the immediate risks associated with maternal transmission during childbirth.