Hepatitis B vaccine for travel

What it is

Hepatitis B is a viral infection of the liver. It can be short-lived or become long-term, and long-term infection is a major cause of liver disease.

How it is caught

It is spread through contact with infected blood or body fluids, for example through unprotected sex, shared needles, or unsterile tattooing, piercing, medical or dental equipment.

Who it is advised for

It is recommended for travellers to areas where hepatitis B is more common whose activities or health put them at risk, such as healthcare and aid workers, long-stay travellers, people who may need medical or dental treatment abroad, and people who may have unprotected sex.

The vaccine course

The course is usually three or four doses, and most travellers at risk are offered an accelerated schedule given over the first two months, with a further dose at 12 months. A faster schedule over three weeks is available for some adults if time before travel is short.

Where it is given

Hepatitis B vaccine for travel is not usually free on the NHS and is available privately from pharmacies and travel clinics.

Destinations

Sometimes advised for travellers to

• Thailand
• India
• Vietnam
• Indonesia
• Kenya
• Tanzania
• South Africa
• Nigeria
• Brazil
• Egypt
• Sri Lanka
• Morocco
• Ghana
• Philippines

Going to Thailand, India and Vietnam? Each guide lists every vaccine UK guidance advises for the country, with malaria and certificate notes, so you can see the whole picture before your consultation.

Price

£45