Who should have it
Travellers visiting areas where hepatitis B is more common, especially for longer or repeated trips. It’s worth considering if you may need medical or dental treatment while away, if you’ll be working in healthcare, taking part in contact sports or adventure activities, or could be exposed through tattoos, piercings, or new sexual partners.
How many doses
Protection is given as a course of doses over a period of time before you travel. A faster schedule is sometimes possible if your trip is sooner. Your prescriber will confirm the right schedule and timing based on your plans.
Possible side effects
Side effects are usually mild and may include soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site, headache, tiredness, or a mild temperature in the days after vaccination.
Additional precautions
The vaccine greatly reduces your risk, but sensible precautions still help. Avoid sharing needles or personal items like razors, take care with tattoos and piercings, use protection with new partners, and seek reputable medical care if treatment is needed while away.
About the disease
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver, spread through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. Many people recover, but in some it can become a long term infection that causes serious liver problems over time, which is why prevention is worthwhile.