Hepatitis B Vaccination
Hepatitis B is a form of hepatitis, a viral infection that can harm the liver. In contrast to hepatitis A, the hepatitis B virus is typically not spread through contaminated water but rather through bodily fluids like blood or contaminated needles.
Prices
Per Dose: £50
Doses per course: 3
Price per course: £150
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About the vaccine
When to get vaccinated: In order to complete the full course in time, you need to get the first dose at least one month before travel.
Course: The course consists of three doses. The second injection is given four weeks after the first, and the third injection should be given five months later (completing the course in six months).
Accelerated course: If travelling at short notice, you may be able to get an accelerated course. You will receive the second injection after seven days, followed by the third injection at least 14 days after the second.
Boosters: Once you have completed the course, you usually won’t need another booster. Boosters are sometimes recommended after exposure to the disease.
How it is given: Injection in the upper arm.
Side effects: Possible side effects include soreness at the injection site and tiredness.
Children: The hepatitis B vaccine can be given from birth.
Additional precautions: If travelling to a country where medical resources are limited, carry sterile needles with you. Use a condom every time you have sex to avoid catching hepatitis B during sex.
Risk if you contract hepatitis B: Hepatitis B can cause a range of flu-like symptoms as well as jaundice. It can become chronic and lead to liver damage and failure.
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a form of viral hepatitis that can inflict damage on the liver. In contrast to hepatitis A, the hepatitis B virus is typically not transmitted through contaminated water but primarily through bodily fluids like blood or semen. It is commonly transmitted through sexual contact or the sharing of contaminated needles and medical equipment. Hepatitis B has an extended incubation period of 40 to 160 days and often presents with no symptoms.
Possible symptoms of hepatitis B include nausea, skin rash, joint pain, decreased appetite, fatigue, headache, and flu-like symptoms. Some individuals also develop jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes. This infection can persist for an extended period, progressing into chronic hepatitis B, which can lead to liver cancer, damage, and failure.
If you are travelling to an area where hepatitis B is prevalent, you may need a hepatitis B vaccine. The same applies to healthcare professionals and medical workers who have a higher risk of exposure to the infection.
According to the World Health Organization, approximately 887,000 individuals lost their lives due to hepatitis B and its associated complications in 2015.
Getting Vaccinated
Immunisation typically involves three to four individual doses administered via injection. The nurse will assess which course is suitable for you, with most travellers being recommended three doses, spaced one month apart.
For healthcare workers, it’s advised to undergo a blood test one to four months after completing the vaccination course to verify its effectiveness. Travellers, on the other hand, are at lower risk and usually do not need a blood test.
Individuals with an ongoing high risk of infection should consider a booster after five years. Boosters may also be necessary if you’ve been exposed to the infection. If you suspect exposure to hepatitis B, seek urgent medical attention.
The hepatitis B vaccine can cause mild side effects, such as redness and soreness at the injection site. Occasionally, patients feel tired within the first few days after the injection.
Who needs the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Hepatitis B is prevalent worldwide, but certain regions pose a heightened risk due to the widespread occurrence of the infection. These hepatitis B risk areas encompass portions of Eastern Europe, Africa, South and Central America, Southeast Asia, Russia, India, China, and select South Pacific Islands. If you have travel plans to any of these destinations, your pharmacist can offer guidance on whether a hepatitis B vaccine is necessary. Trident Pharmacy also offers a combined hepatitis A and B vaccine for travellers requiring immunisation against both infections.
Preventing Hepatitis B
Travellers are particularly at risk if they have an accident and require medical treatment in a country with a high incidence of hepatitis B and a healthcare system with limited resources. In these circumstances, injections might be reused or blood transfusions may not be screened for hep B. The hepatitis B vaccine helps prevent infection and protects you in case of such an emergency.
Hepatitis B is also transmitted during sexual intercourse. If you have sexual intercourse during your travels, always ensure you use a condom to prevent transmission. Avoid procedures that involve piercing your skin, such as tattooing and acupuncture.
Side Effects
Common and very common side effects comprise:
– Temporary soreness
– Redness or hardening of the skin around the injection site
– Fatigue
– Fever
– Gastrointestinal disturbances
– Headache
– Loss of appetite
– Lymphangitis
– Malaise
– Muscle pain
– Irritability
Vaccination Schedule
Three doses. The second injection is given four weeks after the first and the third injection needs to follow five months later. Accelerated course available.
Boosters
If you’re at high risk of Hepatitis B, then you’ll need a booster jab 5 years after primary immunisation.
Who needs it?
When going for a long or permanent stay; recommended for people who are at risk of needing hospital treatment while abroad (for example due to chronic illnesses).
Age Restrictions
Can be given from birth if there is a high risk of infection.