Hepatitis B Vaccine

What is Hepatitis B?

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Hepatitis B is a serious viral infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is spread through direct contact with infected blood or bodily fluids, including unprotected sexual contact, unsterilised medical or dental equipment, tattooing or body piercing, and accidental needle-stick injuries.

 

While an acute infection can cause severe flu-like illness and jaundice, hepatitis B can also develop into a long-term chronic infection. Chronic hepatitis B significantly increases the risk of severe liver damage, liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma).

 

At Livewell Clinic Pharmacy, we offer a private Hepatitis B Vaccination Service at our Soho, London clinic to protect adult travellers, occupational workers, and high-risk individuals.

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Why Get Vaccinated Against Hepatitis B?

 

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent hepatitis B infection and its long-term health complications:

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• High-Level Long-Term Protection: Completing a full course builds strong antibody protection against the virus.

   

• Essential for Travel: Strongly recommended for travel to high-prevalence areas across East Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, South America, parts of the Middle East, and Eastern Europe.

   

• Occupational & Lifestyle Safety: Crucial protection for healthcare professionals, emergency personnel, laboratory workers, and individuals at higher risk of blood or bodily fluid exposure.

   

• Combined Vaccine Options: Convenient single-vaccine solutions (such as Twinrix®) are available if you also require protection against Hepatitis A.

Dosing Schedule & Course Options

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The required dosing schedule depends on the selected vaccine and how quickly you need protection before travelling or beginning occupational exposure:

• Standard Schedule (0, 1, and 6 months):

Dose 1: Day 0

Dose 2: 1 month after Dose 1

Dose 3: 6 months after Dose 1 (Provides optimal, long-lasting immunity for planned travel or routine risk)

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• Accelerated Schedule (0, 1, and 2 months):

Given at 0, 1, and 2 months, followed by a booster at 12 months. Ideal if protection is needed sooner.

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• Super-Accelerated / Rapid Travel Schedule (0, 7, and 21 days):

Given on Days 0, 7, and 21, with a 4th booster dose at 12 months. Suitable for last-minute travel when departure is imminent.

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​​​Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Who should get the Hepatitis B vaccine?

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Vaccination is strongly recommended for:

• Travellers visiting countries with moderate to high rates of Hepatitis B

• Individuals undertaking adventure travel, long-term trips, backpacking, or medical volunteering.

• Anyone who might require medical, surgical, or dental treatment while abroad.

• Healthcare workers, lab technicians, emergency service personnel, and care home staff.

• Individuals with household or sexual contact with a Hepatitis B carrier.

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Who should NOT receive the vaccine?

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You should postpone or avoid vaccination if you:

• Have had a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of a Hepatitis B vaccine or any of its ingredients.

   

• Are currently unwell with a high fever or acute severe infection on the day of your appointment.

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What are the common side effects?

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Hepatitis B vaccines are very safe and generally well tolerated. Mild, temporary side effects usually resolve within a few days and include:

 

• Soreness, redness, or mild swelling at the injection site in the upper arm

   

• Mild headache, fatigue, or irritability

   

• Slightly elevated temperature or general body aches

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Can I get the Hepatitis B vaccine alongside other travel jabs?

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Yes. Single-antigen or combined Hepatitis B vaccines can safely be administered at the same visit alongside other travel vaccines (such as Yellow Fever, Typhoid, or Rabies) at separate injection sites.

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Book Your Hepatitis B Vaccination Today

 

Protect your health at home and abroad in three simple steps:

1. Book Online: Select a convenient appointment slot through our online portal.

2. Clinical Assessment: Meet with our pharmacist at our Central London clinic to review your risk factors and select the right dosing schedule.​

3. Vaccination: Receive your jab safely in a private clinical consultation room.