If you are planning a trip abroad, especially to countries with different hygiene and healthcare standards, hepatitis vaccines should be on your checklist. Many people prepare their luggage and itinerary but forget one of the most important travel essentials: protecting their health. One key way to do this is by getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B.
Hepatitis is a group of viral infections that affect your liver. While some types are mild, others can cause serious illness or long-term damage. The good news is you can get vaccinated before your trip and reduce the risk significantly. Our pharmacists can guide you through the right hepatitis vaccines for travellers based on your destination and personal needs.
Let’s explore what you need to know.
Why Are Hepatitis Vaccines Important for Travellers?
When travelling, especially to places in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Central and South America, or Eastern Europe, you may be at higher risk of exposure to hepatitis A or B. These viruses spread in different ways and can lead to severe illness, fatigue, and even liver failure in extreme cases.
- Hepatitis A is mainly spread through contaminated food or water. You can get it from eating street food, salads, or drinking tap water in places with poor sanitation.
- Hepatitis B spreads through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. It may be transmitted through medical treatments, sexual contact, or even non-sterile equipment at salons or tattoo studios.
Because these viruses are more common in certain parts of the world, the hepatitis A vaccine for travel and the hepatitis B vaccine for travel are strongly advised.
Hepatitis A Vaccine for Travel: What You Need to Know
The hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective and usually recommended for anyone going to high-risk countries. You only need one dose to get short-term protection, and a booster dose 6 to 12 months later gives you long-term immunity that can last up to 25 years or more.
This vaccine is especially important if you plan to:
- Eat local or street food.
- Stay with friends or family.
- Visit rural or remote areas.
- Travel for long periods.
Even one dose before your trip can make a big difference. Our pharmacists will check your travel plans and help you with the best timing for the vaccination.
Hepatitis B Vaccine for Travel: When Is It Needed?
The hepatitis B vaccine is given as a series of three injections over six months. However, if you’re travelling soon, an accelerated schedule is available that gives you good protection in a shorter time.
This vaccine is especially important if you:
- Might need medical treatment while abroad
- Are travelling for work or volunteering in healthcare settings
- Plan to get piercings, tattoos, or dental work during your trip
- Have close contact with local communities
Our experts will discuss your travel details and medical history to decide if this vaccine is right for you. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially in unfamiliar environments.
Travel Protected, Travel Smart
The last thing you want on your trip is to fall ill with a preventable disease. Hepatitis can easily ruin your plans and leave long-term effects on your health. But with the right travel vaccines for hepatitis, you can explore the world more confidently.
Don’t leave your health behind. Get your hepatitis vaccination before travelling to your dream destination today. Book an appointment at Nima Pharmacy and let our pharmacists help you stay safe while you travel.