Transmission and Risk Areas
Hepatitis B is transmitted through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles or syringes, blood transfusions in areas with inadequate screening and from mother to child during childbirth. Higher-risk regions include parts of Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe (CDC, 2023).
Who Should Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine
Infants and Children
The vaccine is administered as part of routine childhood immunisations in the UK. Infants should receive their first dose within 24 hours of birth, followed by additional doses at specified intervals (NHS, 2024).
Adults at Risk
Adults who should consider vaccination include healthcare workers, individuals with chronic liver disease, those travelling to high-risk countries and people with multiple sexual partners or those engaging in high-risk behaviours (HepB.org, 2023).
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms typically develop within 10 to 15 days after exposure and can vary from mild to severe. Common symptoms include nausea or vomiting, fatigue & fever. In more severe cases, symptoms may escalate to include seizures, jaundice (yellowing of the skin), coma & potentially death if untreated. Chronic infection can lead to serious complications over time.
Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedule and Dosage
• Primary Doses: A primary course of 3 injections followed by a 4th within 12 months. Boosters may be needed every 5 years.
• When to get vaccinated: At least four weeks before travel. It can be given closer to your travel date, but this leaves you at a greater risk.
• Side effects: Common side effects include soreness at the injection site, mild fever & Fatigue. These are generally mild and resolve within a few days (CDC, 2023).
• Children: We only vaccinate children aged 12 years and older.