Hepatitis is not something most people think about until it affects them or someone close to them. Many people feel completely well for years, which is why the virus continues to affect thousands across the UK without drawing much attention. In fact, the UK Health Security Agency estimates that around 50 per cent of people living with hepatitis C in England do not know they are infected, mainly because symptoms can take a long time to appear.
This silent nature makes prevention especially important. While not all types of hepatitis can be prevented, vaccination plays a key role in protecting against certain strains before exposure happens. Whether the risk comes from travel, work, or everyday contact, understanding which forms of hepatitis vaccine are preventable and how the virus spreads can help you act early and protect your long-term liver health.
What is hepatitis, and how does it affect your health?
Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver, usually caused by a viral infection, and it can range from mild illness to long-term liver damage. The liver plays a vital role in digestion, energy storage, and removing toxins from the body.
Viral hepatitis is grouped into several types, with hepatitis A, B, and C being the most common in the UK. Each type behaves differently, spreads in different ways, and has different prevention options.
What are the main types of viral hepatitis?
The main viral types are hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Hepatitis A is usually short-term and linked to contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B and C can become long-term and may lead to serious liver problems if left untreated.
Why prevention is essential for liver health
Protecting your liver early reduces the risk of complications such as cirrhosis or liver cancer. Prevention also helps stop the spread of infection within families and communities.
Which types of hepatitis can be prevented with vaccination?
Vaccination is an effective way to prevent certain types of hepatitis, but it is not available for all forms. In the UK, vaccines are used mainly to prevent hepatitis A and hepatitis B.
The hepatitis vaccine works by helping your immune system recognise the virus so your body can fight it off if exposed in the future.
Hepatitis A vaccine
The hepatitis A vaccine protects against a virus commonly spread through contaminated food, water, or close contact. It is often recommended for travellers, people with liver conditions, or those at higher risk due to lifestyle or work.
Hepatitis A and B combined vaccine
Many people receive a combined hepatitis A & B vaccine, which offers protection against both viruses with fewer appointments and is commonly used for travel or occupational health needs.
Hepatitis B vaccine
The hepatitis B vaccine protects against a virus spread through blood and bodily fluids. Hepatitis B vaccination is offered to babies in the UK and is also recommended for adults at higher risk, including those with certain medical conditions or exposure risks.
How is hepatitis transmitted?
The transmission of hepatitis depends on the type of virus, which is why prevention advice differs for each one. Knowing how it spreads can help reduce your risk.
Hepatitis B transmission
Hepatitis B transmission occurs through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. This can happen through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to baby at birth. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of infection.
Hepatitis C transmission
Hepatitis C transmission mainly occurs through blood-to-blood contact, such as sharing needles or unsterilised equipment. At present, there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, but effective treatments are available if infection is detected early.
Who should consider hepatitis vaccination in the UK?
Hepatitis vaccination may be advised based on your lifestyle, health, or travel plans. A pharmacist can assess your situation and explain whether vaccination is suitable for you.
People who often consider vaccination include frequent travellers, those with chronic liver disease, individuals at occupational risk, and people who may be exposed through close contact or medical procedures abroad.
Is hepatitis vaccination safe and effective?
Hepatitis vaccines used in the UK have a strong safety record and are carefully regulated. Most people only experience mild side effects, such as soreness at the injection site or feeling tired for a short time.
Ready to protect yourself against hepatitis?
If you are unsure about your risk or want to check whether vaccination is appropriate for you, speaking with one of our trained pharmacists is a sensible first step. They can explain your options clearly and help you decide what action to take.
Book an appointment at Nima Pharmacy today for hepatitis vaccination advice and support personalised to your needs. Our pharmacists are here to guide you through your options and help you stay protected.
FAQs
Can the hepatitis vaccine prevent all types of hepatitis?
No, the hepatitis vaccine does not prevent all types of hepatitis. Vaccination is available for hepatitis A and hepatitis B, including a combined hepatitis A and B vaccine. There is currently no vaccine for hepatitis C, although effective treatments are available if infection occurs.
Is hepatitis B vaccination enough to protect against hepatitis C?
No, hepatitis B vaccination does not protect against hepatitis C. These are different viruses with different transmission routes. While hepatitis vaccination protects against hepatitis B transmission, hepatitis C transmission can still occur through blood-to-blood contact.
How long does protection from the hepatitis A and B vaccine last?
Protection from the hepatitis A and B vaccine is long-lasting. Hepatitis A protection usually lasts at least 20 years, while hepatitis B protection is often lifelong after a full course. A pharmacist can advise if boosters are needed based on your risk.
Can adults get the hepatitis vaccine in the UK?
Yes, adults can receive the hepatitis vaccine in the UK. Hepatitis vaccination is commonly recommended for travellers, people with certain health conditions, and those at increased risk due to work or lifestyle. Pharmacists can assess suitability during a consultation.
Is hepatitis spread through casual contact like kissing or sharing food?
Most types of hepatitis are not spread through casual contact. Hepatitis B transmission does not occur through hugging or sharing food, and hepatitis C transmission requires blood-to-blood contact. Hepatitis A can spread through contaminated food or poor hygiene rather than close personal contact.
Should I get vaccinated before travelling abroad?
Yes, hepatitis vaccination is often recommended before travelling, especially to areas with higher infection rates. The hepatitis A and B vaccine is commonly advised for travel, as exposure risks can increase through food, water, or medical care abroad.