If your job involves a risk of exposure, your employer should arrange your hepatitis B vaccination.

Hepatitis B typically lasts between 1 to 3 months, with most individuals experiencing either no symptoms or mild ones. If the infection persists beyond six months, it is classified as chronic hepatitis B.

The hepatitis B vaccine is highly safe. While some redness and soreness at the injection site may occur, side effects are uncommon. As an inactivated (dead) vaccine, it cannot cause hepatitis B.

The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for pregnant women who are in high risk categories. There is no evidence suggesting any risk from vaccinating pregnant or breastfeeding women, as the vaccine is inactivated (dead), making it unlikely to pose any significant risk to the unborn baby.

In addition to medical treatments, you can help alleviate symptoms and prevent the spread of infection by:

Do:

•  Rest and stay hydrated
•  Take painkillers like paracetamol and ibuprofen (consult your doctor for advice on the appropriate dosage of paracetamol, as you may need a reduced dose)
•  Keep your room well ventilated, wear loose clothing, and avoid hot showers and baths if you experience itching

Don’ts:

•  Do not consume alcohol
•  Do not have unprotected sex; use a condom or dental dam
•  Do not share razors, toothbrushes, or needles with others

After completing the full vaccination course, a booster is generally not needed except for healthcare workers (who should have a booster every five years), individuals with renal failure, or in cases of significant exposure.

Symptoms of hepatitis B infection may include:

•  High temperature
•  Fatigue
•  Upper abdominal pain
•  Nausea or vomiting
•  Raised patches of itchy skin (hives)
•  Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)

Routine testing for immunity after vaccination is recommended only for certain groups, such as those at risk of occupational exposure. For healthcare and laboratory workers, antibody levels should be checked one to two months after completing the full vaccination course. Midway Pharmacy offers a private blood test service for testing immunity against hepatitis B.

To reduce your risk of hepatitis B:

 Use a condom or dental dam during vaginal, anal, or oral sex

 Avoid sharing razors, toothbrushes, and needles

The hepatitis B vaccine is highly effective, with about 90% of adults developing protection against the virus. Effectiveness may be lower in individuals who:

•  Are over 40 years old
•  Are obese
•  Smoke
•  Have alcohol dependency, especially those with advanced liver disease

Those with a weakened immune system or on kidney dialysis may require more frequent doses for optimal effectiveness.

Vaccination is the most effective means of preventing hepatitis B. Adults should receive the vaccine if they are at high risk, including:

•  Travelling to a high risk country
•  Having liver or kidney disease
•  Having HIV
•  Working in high risk environments, such as healthcare settings or prisons

No matter your destination, the Care Pharmacy Travel Clinic in Leeds and Bradford is committed to ensuring your safety and protection throughout your journey.

Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedule for Adults

Adults require a minimum of 3 doses of the vaccine to ensure optimal protection against hepatitis B. Typically, there’s a one-month interval between each dose, but in certain cases, all 3 doses can be administered within 21 days (with a 4th dose at 12 months) if quicker protection is needed.

Protection against long-term hepatitis B infection could last for as long as 20 to 30 years after being vaccinated. The vaccine may be less effective in certain individuals, such as those with kidney failure, so additional doses may sometimes be required.