Hepatitis B Travel Vaccination
At Kennedy’s Pharmacy, we offer a Travel Vaccination Service which provides protection from a wide range of diseases, including Hepatitis B alongside malaria, hepatitis, rabies and yellow fever. We will be able to recommend what type of protection is best for you and it will be provided in either tablet form or as a vaccine.
We provide vaccine certificates for all administered vaccines including Yellow Fever. For more information and advice for specific countries and protection please contact us by phone.
Always leave sufficient time (6 - 8 weeks) before your travel plans to receive your vaccination. As always, your health and safety should be a top priority.
Making a Travel Vaccination Appointment
Booking for this service is currently made by telephoning either of our pharmacies in Rasharkin or Dunloy.
At present Travel Vaccines are offered mainly in our Rasharkin pharmacy with our pharmacist, Martin McPeake who has completed specialist training in Travel Health.
Tel: 028 2957 1124 (Rasharkin)
You can also leave your details with the form at the bottom and Martin will be in touch to help or get started!
At your initial consultation, Martin will advise you on what you need to do in order to meet the requirements for safe travel to your particular destination, as well as General Travel Health Advice and self-care. It would also be helpful to have the following information for this appointment:
- Personal Details
- Country of destination plus travel itinerary
- Duration of travel
- Medication history
- Vaccination history
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B Vaccination Course Details
The Hepatitis B vaccination course comprises three doses. The second injection is administered four weeks after the initial one, and the third injection should be given five months later, completing the entire course in six months.
Hepatitis B Vaccination: Important Information
Vaccine Timing: To ensure timely completion of the full course, we recommend contacting the travel clinic as soon possible. Accelerated schedules are available to ensure vaccination before travel can be completed.
Booster Shots: Recommended 5 years after completing the vaccination course. You may be recommended to take a booster after exposure to the disease.
Vaccine Administration: The Hepatitis B vaccine is administered via an injection, typically in the arm.
Duration of Protection: The vaccine offers protection for 5 years.
Side Effects: Side effects of the vaccine can include soreness at the injection site, fever, headache and feeling of tiredness.
Children: The vaccine is suitable from 16 years.
Additional Precautions: Risk is linked to behaviour – any activity causing contact with blood or body fluids can put you at risk.
Travellers may also be exposed when receiving medical or dental treatment while abroad. Infection can be spread via sexual intercourse, needle sharing, blood transfusions and injections, as well as through tattooing, body piercing and acupuncture.
Risk of Contracting Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B can result in flu-like symptoms and jaundice. If left untreated, it can progress to a chronic condition, potentially causing liver damage and failure.
It is crucial to prioritise your health and take the necessary precautions by getting vaccinated against Hepatitis B before traveling.
Please consult with us for personalised advice and to address any specific concerns you may have. Stay safe and enjoy your journey without the worry of Hepatitis B.
Safety Tips To Help Avoid Hepatitis B
Here are safety tips to help you avoid contracting hepatitis B:
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Practice Safe Sex:
- Use condoms consistently and correctly, especially with new or unknown partners, to reduce the risk of sexual transmission.
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Avoid Sharing Personal Items:
- Refrain from sharing items such as razors, toothbrushes, or anything that may come into contact with blood or bodily fluids.
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Be Cautious with Body Piercings and Tattoos:
- Choose reputable and licensed facilities for piercings and tattoos to minimise the risk of infection through contaminated equipment.
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Practice Safe Needle Use:
- If you require medical or dental procedures involving needles, ensure that the equipment is sterile and disposed of properly.
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Healthcare Settings:
- Be vigilant in healthcare settings. Ensure that medical professionals use sterile equipment and follow proper infection control practices.
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Screen Blood Products:
- If you require blood transfusions or medical treatments involving blood products, make sure they are screened for hepatitis B.
Frequently Asked Questions
What countries are at risk of Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a global occurrence, with higher risk zones for exposure encompassing Eastern Europe, Russia, India, China, South and Central America, Africa, South-East Asia, and numerous islands in the South Pacific.
This is just a shortlist, please consult with us for specific guidance.
What are the risk of Hepatitis B?
The signs and symptoms of Hepatitis B include mild fever, flu-like symptoms, high temperature, gastro-intestinal upset, nausea and vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain, yellow skin and eyes.
How far in advance of travel should I get my travel vaccine?
It is best to check with the pharmacist as to when your vaccine course should commence, contact Martin as soon as possible so that we can ensure you receive the best protection whilst you are travelling allowing you to concentrate on enjoying your trip.
Is there a cost for the travel vaccination service?
There is a £35 fee for your initial consultation and any additional costs will depend on your individual situation and what you may require for your trip. The pharmacist will be able to advise.
