Hepatitis B Vaccination
Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver caused by a virus spread by blood and body fluids. Whilst we have a lower occurrence of Hepatitis B in the UK, some groups still exist who are at an increased risk. This includes those who may have emigrated here from higher risk countries as well as those who inject drugs and those who have unprotected sex with multiple partners. You may be required to get a Hepatitis B vaccine before travelling to areas of the world where Hepatitis B is common. You can schedule your Hepatitis Travel Vaccination in Ramstage or Streatham by visiting our website today.
If infected by Hepatitis B, you may make a full recovery, but as many as 1 in 20 people become carriers with chronic (long-term) infection. This means you may feel fine but remain infectious. You may also go on to develop liver disease. Around 1 in 100 people get a more serious illness which can be fatal if not treated. If a child contracts Hepatitis B, it can persist for years and can eventually cause very serious liver damage.
What are the advantages of the Hepatitis B vaccine?
-
It is highly effective
-
It protects you against Hepatitis B infections and its complications such as liver damage, liver cancer and death
-
Your vaccination helps to protect others unable to be vaccinated
What is the Hepatitis B vaccine effectiveness?
-
According to the World Health Organization, it is 98%-100% effective
How safe is the Hepatitis B Vaccine?
-
Generally safe and effective
-
Common side effects are headache, fever and sensitivity around injection site such as soreness, redness or swelling
When should I NOT have the Hepatitis B Vaccine?
First, you should discuss this with your medical provider, but reasons not to are if you have had:
-
Any kind of severe allergic reaction to any other vaccine or component in the Hepatitis B vaccine
-
An allergic reaction to yeast
-
An allergic reaction to neomycin
If you are planning on travelling to an area where Hepatitis B is found more commonly, such as Sub-Saharan Africa, east and southeast Asia or the Pacific Islands, please take care and ensure that you are immunised against this easily avoidable illness. Book in to receive your Hepatitis Travel Vaccination in Ramsgate or Streatham by visiting us online today.
