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Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver caused by a virus that's spread through blood and body fluids.

The vast majority of people in the UK will already have been vaccinated against Hepatitis B as it’s offered to all babies at 8, 12 and 16 weeks of age. However, the Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers considered to be at risk. The following locations are considered to be at risk areas:

  • Parts of East Asia
  • Sub Saharan Africa
  • The Amazon
  • Southern parts of eastern and central Europe
  • The Middle East and Indian subcontinent

Symptoms of Hepatitis B

As Hepatitis B is spread through blood and bodily fluids we recommend avoiding situations where you could come into contact with infected matter. While travelling in at-risk areas we recommend the following to reduce your risk:

  • Avoid unprotected sexual intercourse, condoms (including use for oral sex) provide good but not complete protection.
  • Avoid tattooing, piercing and acupuncture while abroad, particularly if you can’t verify that equipment is sterile.
  • Do not share needles or any other injection equipment.
  • Do not share toothbrushes or razors and avoid traditional barbers where razors may be re-used.

The Hepatitis B vaccination is available

If you are travelling to an area with an increased risk of contracting Hepatitis B, we recommend visiting us to discuss if the vaccination is right for you. If you believe you may have unprotected sex or may become directly exposed to blood or blood products or are long stay traveller we recommend the vaccine.

You should seek medical advice in the following cases:

  • You think you may have been exposed to the hepatitis B virus – emergency treatment can help prevent infection if given within a few days of exposure.
  • You have symptoms associated with hepatitis B.
  • You’re at a high risk of hepatitis B.

Book Your Appointment Today!

It’s so easy to book a consultation using our dedicated online booking service. Simply click the link below to book your vaccinations and benefit from expert travel advice at a time that suits you.