A vaccine prepared from hepatitis B protein antigen produced by genetically engineered yeast. The vaccine prevents acute infection with hepatitis B, the chronic carrier state of hepatitis B infection. In developing nations where hepatitis B infection is endemic, it has been shown to decrease the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma resulting from hepatitis B infection. The World Health Organization has recommended that the vaccine be given to all infants and adolescents, as well as all health care workers and all patients receiving hemodialysis; all incarcerated prisoners; men who have sex with men; and people who inject drugs.