Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection that can lead to chronic liver issues, increasing the risk of liver cancer or cirrhosis. Globally, approximately 350 million people are carriers, with significantly higher infection rates in Asia, Africa, and China, where it can affect over 8% of the population.
Many cases of hepatitis B present with mild symptoms that may go unnoticed, but infected individuals can become lifelong carriers. The virus is primarily spread through unprotected sex, contact with infected blood (such as through blood transfusions, contaminated needles, and tattoos), and other body fluids. Hepatitis B is 100 times more infectious than HIV.
Travellers, especially those planning long-term stays or working in high-risk environments such as with children or in humanitarian aid, should consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis B. The hepatitis B vaccine involves a series of three doses, administered over a period of 3 weeks to 6 months.
To protect yourself from hepatitis B, ensure you complete the full vaccination course before traveling or working in high-risk areas. For more information and to schedule your hepatitis B vaccination, contact our healthcare professionals today.
| Age of use | Doses required | Schedule | Time Before Travel | Booster Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16 years+ | 3 or 4 | 0, 7, 21 days +1 year** | Up to day before* | 5 years |
| Age of use | Doses required | Schedule | Time Before Travel | Booster Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Birth + | 3 or 4 | 0, 1, 2, 12 months** | Up to day before* | 5 years |
*Vaccines work best if given time to become active. This vaccine can be given up to the day before travel and will provide some cover.
**Full protection not given until final dose at 1 year. Will give adequate protection if leaving sooner.
