Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B risk areas, how the virus spreads, and the vaccination schedule available before travel.
What is hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver. It is spread through contact with infected blood and bodily fluids and can cause both acute and chronic liver disease. While some people recover completely, others may develop long-term complications, including liver damage.
Where is hepatitis B found?
Hepatitis B is found worldwide but is more common in:
- Africa
- East and Southeast Asia
- The Pacific Islands
- Eastern Europe
- The Middle East
- Parts of Central and South America
How is hepatitis B spread?
Hepatitis B is spread through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. This may occur through:
- Unprotected sexual contact
- Medical or dental treatment using unsterile equipment
- Tattooing or body piercing with contaminated equipment
- Sharing needles or other injecting equipment
- Contact with contaminated blood following an accident or injury
Symptoms
Symptoms usually develop 6 weeks to 6 months after exposure. They may include:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Joint pain
- Dark urine
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Prevention
The risk of hepatitis B can be reduced by:
- Receiving the hepatitis B vaccine before travel.
- Practising safer sex.
- Avoiding tattoos, piercings, or medical procedures where sterile equipment cannot be guaranteed.
- Avoiding contact with blood or bodily fluids.
- Not sharing needles, razors, or toothbrushes.
Hepatitis B vaccine
A hepatitis B vaccine is available in the UK to help protect against infection. It may be recommended for travellers visiting countries where hepatitis B is common or for those whose activities may increase their risk of exposure.
How is the vaccine given?
- The vaccine is given as an injection into the upper arm.
- The standard vaccination schedule consists of 3 doses.
- An accelerated schedule may be available for travellers requiring protection before departure.
Who can receive the vaccine?
The hepatitis B vaccine is suitable for adults and children. During your travel health consultation, our pharmacist will assess your destination, travel plans, medical history, and individual risk factors to determine whether the vaccine is appropriate for you.
Who should consider vaccination?
Vaccination may be appropriate for travellers who:
- Are travelling to countries where hepatitis B is common.
- Will be staying for extended periods.
- May require medical or dental treatment while abroad.
- Plan to have tattoos, piercings, or cosmetic procedures overseas.
- May have sexual contact with new partners during travel.
- Will be working in healthcare, humanitarian aid, or other roles with potential exposure to blood or bodily fluids.
A travel health consultation can help determine whether the hepatitis B vaccine is appropriate for your trip.
When to seek medical attention
Seek medical advice if you:
- Experience symptoms of hepatitis during or after travel.
- Believe you have been exposed to infected blood or bodily fluids.
- Develop jaundice, persistent abdominal pain, or unexplained fatigue after returning from abroad.
Health information notice: This page is for general guidance and does not replace a personal consultation. Our pharmacist confirms suitability, doses and timings at your appointment, based on your destination, medical history and travel plans.