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Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and is caused by the hepatitis B virus. It is transmitted through the exchange of blood or body fluids, such as through sexual contact or infected needles.

Hepatitis B is found throughout the world and can affect people of all ages. However, it is most common in certain parts of the world, particularly in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands, where the prevalence of the infection is high.

No need to book to see your GP. Our qualified travel health specialists can advise and prescribe Hepatitis B vaccinations providing a fast and convenient service in the Bristol, Cheltenham & Gloucester areas.

Vaccination Price per dose Price per course (3 doses)
 Hepatitis B  £45  £135

Prevention

There are several ways you can prevent hepatitis B when traveling:

  • Get vaccinated: The hepatitis B vaccine is highly effective at preventing infection. All children born in the UK after 1 August 2017 should receive hepatitis B vaccine as part of the routine UK vaccination schedule. Anyone born before 1 August 2017 is unlikely to have been routinely given hepatitis B vaccine, so may be at risk of exposure through travel. You should arrange a vaccination ideally 6 to 8 weeks before you travel.
  • Practice safe sex: Hepatitis B can be transmitted through sexual contact, so it's important to practice safe sex while traveling by using condoms.
  • Avoid sharing needles: Do not share needles or other injection equipment while traveling. This is a common way that hepatitis B is transmitted.
  • Avoid risky behaviours: Avoid activities that may expose you to blood or body fluids, such as tattooing, body piercing, and acupuncture.
  • Take precautions with food and water: Hepatitis B can also be transmitted through contaminated food or water. To reduce your risk, drink bottled water and eat foods that have been thoroughly cooked.

  • Countries at risk

    Hepatitis B is found worldwide, but it is more common in some parts of the world than others. In general, hepatitis B is more common in countries with high rates of poverty and less developed healthcare systems.

    Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands have the highest rates of hepatitis B infection. In these regions, up to 10% of the population may be infected with the hepatitis B virus.

    In contrast, hepatitis B is less common in North America, Europe, and Latin America.

    Sign and Symptoms

    The signs and symptoms of hepatitis B can vary, but may include:

  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fever
  • Abdominal pain
  • Joint pain
  • Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)
  • Dark urine
  • Clay-coloured stools

    It's important to note that many people with hepatitis B do not have any symptoms, especially in the early stages of infection. This is why it is important to get vaccinated if you are travelling to a country at risk of hepatitis B.

    If you do have symptoms of hepatitis B, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. In some cases, hepatitis B can lead to serious complications, such as liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Early treatment can help prevent these complications.