Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV), which attacks the liver and can result in inflammation, liver damage, and, in some cases, chronic liver disease.

The virus can be spread through:

• Contact with infected blood
• Unprotected sexual contact
• Medical or dental procedures in countries with lower healthcare standards
• Sharing needles or sharp instruments
• Tattooing, piercing, or cosmetic treatments using unsterilised equipment

Many people with Hepatitis B may not experience symptoms immediately, making prevention through vaccination particularly important.

Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may include:

• Fatigue and tiredness
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal discomfort
• Joint and muscle pain
• Dark urine
• Pale-coloured stools
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)

Some individuals may not show symptoms but can still carry and transmit the virus.

Hepatitis B vaccination may be recommended if you are:

• Travelling to countries where Hepatitis B is more common
• Planning long-term travel abroad
• Working in healthcare or humanitarian roles
• Participating in volunteer projects overseas
• Likely to require medical treatment while travelling
• Visiting friends and relatives in higher-risk countries
• Engaging in activities that may increase exposure risk

Our travel health specialists can assess your travel plans and advise whether Hepatitis B vaccination is appropriate for your journey.

The Hepatitis B vaccine is administered as an injection and is highly effective at preventing infection.

The standard vaccination schedule typically involves:

• First dose – chosen date
• Second dose – one month later
• Third dose – six months after the first dose

For travellers departing soon, an accelerated schedule may be available:

• First dose – chosen date
• Second dose – after 7 days
• Third dose – after 21 days
• Booster dose – usually recommended after 12 months

Your pharmacist will advise which schedule is most suitable based on your departure date.

The risk of Hepatitis B is generally greater in parts of:

• Africa
• Asia
• South America
• Central America
• Eastern Europe
• The Middle East
• Pacific Islands

The level of risk depends on your destination, length of stay, and planned activities.

While vaccination provides excellent protection, travellers should also:

• Avoid sharing razors, toothbrushes, or needles
• Ensure tattoos and piercings are performed using sterile equipment
• Practise safe sex
• Seek medical treatment only from reputable healthcare facilities
• Avoid contact with blood and bodily fluids whenever possible

Combining vaccination with sensible precautions offers the best protection.

If you are travelling abroad and want protection against Hepatitis B, book a travel health consultation at Rusholme Pharmacy.

We can assess your travel plans, recommend suitable vaccinations, and help ensure you are fully prepared before departure.

Book your Hepatitis B Vaccination today and travel with greater confidence.