What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause acute as well as chronic diseases.
The virus is transmitted through contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person.
Where can I get a Hepatitis B vaccine in the UK?
Smarta Healthcare offers Hepatitis B vaccinations for patients in and around Bedford, Milton Keynes, Luton, Letchworth, Biggleswade, St Neots, Cambridge, Sandy, Hitchin and Huntingdon, or further afield.
Vaccinations are administered at our convenient out-of-town clinic in Bedford with free parking.
Book an AskMyPharmacist travel health consultation today.
How much does the Hepatitis B vaccination cost?
The Hepatitis B vaccination costs £50 per dose for adults and £27 per dose for children.
3 doses over 6 months are required for full protection – an accelerated schedule may be possible if you are travelling sooner.
Discounts are available for students and family/group bookings.
If you have any questions about required or recommended travel vaccinations, book an AskMyPharmacist travel health consultation at least 2 months before your departure date to make sure you’re ready for your trip.
Where are Hepatitis B destinations?
Hepatitis B is more common in certain areas with higher rates of transmission.
Regions with intermediate to high prevalence include parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, the Western Pacific, and Eastern Europe.
However, the virus can be found in all parts of the world.
How is Hepatitis B transmitted?
Hepatitis B can be contracted through exposure to infected blood or bodily fluids through activities such as unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing of needles, or from an infected person to a non-infected person through breaks in the skin or mucous membranes, or from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
How contagious is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is highly contagious, as it can be transmitted through contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person. The virus can survive outside the body for at least seven days.
Hugging, kissing, or sharing food or utensils, does not typically lead to hepatitis B transmission. However, the virus is highly contagious in situations where there is direct contact with infected blood or bodily fluids.
Vaccination is a highly effective way to prevent hepatitis B infection and reduce its transmission. Practicing safe sex, avoiding sharing needles or personal items that may have come into contact with blood, and taking precautions in healthcare settings are essential measures to reduce the risk of transmission.
If you suspect you have been exposed to Hepatitis B, you must consult with a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
How can I protect myself against Hepatitis B?
If you are planning to travel to areas with higher prevalence, it’s essential to take precautions to reduce the risk of hepatitis B transmission.
This includes getting vaccinated against Hepatitis B, practicing safe sex, avoiding sharing needles or personal items that may be contaminated with blood, and taking general hygiene precautions.
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis B?
The symptoms of acute hepatitis B can include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
However, many people with acute Hepatitis B do not have symptoms, and the infection may resolve on its own without causing long-term liver damage.
Select your destination
Use the tool below to find the recommended vaccinations for your travel destination. Select the continent or the country from the drop down menu. You can then book your appointment at our Smarta Healthcare Clinic.
