Combined Hepatitis A and B Vaccine
Find out what vaccinations you may need for you destination
Combined Hepatitis A and B Vaccine
Hepatitis A and hepatitis B are viral infections that affect the liver. They can cause both short-term and serious long-term health complications.
Hepatitis A is primarily spread through contaminated food, water or close contact with an infected person. The virus is more common in areas where hygiene standards may be lower. Even travellers staying in higher-end accommodation can still be exposed through food handling or local outbreaks.
Hepatitis B spreads through contact with infected blood and bodily fluids. In some countries, infection-control standards may differ significantly from those in the UK. Hepatitis B is found worldwide but is particularly prevalent in parts of Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe and the Pacific Islands.
The combined hepatitis A and B vaccine offers protection against both infections within a single vaccination course. This makes it a convenient and effective option for travellers.
Symptoms
Hepatitis A and hepatitis B can both affect the liver, but symptoms and long-term risks can vary. Some people may have mild symptoms or no obvious symptoms at first, while others can become significantly unwell.
Common symptoms of hepatitis A can include fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea, stomach pain, dark urine, pale stools, and yellowing of the skin or eyes, known as jaundice. Symptoms may appear a few weeks after exposure and can last for several weeks. Although many people recover fully, the illness can still disrupt travel, work and daily life.
Hepatitis B can cause similar symptoms, including tiredness, fever, nausea, abdominal discomfort, dark urine and jaundice. In some cases, hepatitis B can become a long-term infection. Chronic hepatitis B can increase the risk of serious liver problems later in life, including liver scarring and liver cancer.
Because hepatitis infections can be picked up through everyday travel risks, and symptoms may not appear immediately, vaccination is an important preventative step.
Vaccination
The combined hepatitis A and B vaccine gives protection against both infections through one vaccination course. This makes it a practical option for travellers who need coverage for both diseases but prefer a simpler schedule.
The standard hepatitis A and B vaccine schedule for adults is given as three doses over six months. This typically includes the first dose, a second dose one month later and a third dose six months after the first dose. In some circumstances, an accelerated schedule may be considered for travellers with limited time before departure, although this will depend on your age, travel dates, vaccine suitability and clinical assessment.
It is best to arrange your travel vaccination appointment as early as possible. This gives you the best chance of completing the recommended course before you travel and allows time to discuss any other vaccines or malaria prevention advice you may need for your destination.
During your appointment at Market Harborough Travel Clinic, our team will review your travel plans and help decide whether the combined hepatitis A and B vaccine is appropriate for you. We can also advise on other ways to reduce your risk while abroad.
Book Now
If you are planning to travel abroad, book an appointment with Market Harborough Travel Clinic today.
Our experienced team can provide personalised travel health advice and help you understand which vaccinations, medications, or preventative measures may be appropriate based on your destination, medical history, and individual circumstances.
We are here to help you travel with confidence through expert guidance and convenient appointments in Market Harborough.