Hepatitis B Vaccine

Protect yourself with the Hepatitis B vaccine and other key travel vaccinations from Kamsons Pharmacy. If you’re heading to regions with higher rates of Hepatitis B or work within healthcare, vaccination is essential to reduce your risk of contracting the virus.

At Kamsons Pharmacy, we provide the Hepatitis B vaccine and other important travel and occupational health vaccines, along with professional advice to ensure you stay healthy while abroad.

Although hepatitis B is uncommon in the UK, the risk is higher in regions such as Africa, Asia, the Middle East, parts of South America, and Eastern Europe. If you’re travelling to these areas, consider getting vaccinated. You can check specific country recommendations on the Travel Health Pro website.

How is Hepatitis B spread?

Hepatitis B is spread through infected bodily fluids, and common ways to contract the virus include:

• Unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex
• Sharing needles when injecting drugs
• Being injured by a used needle
• Getting a tattoo or piercing with unsterilised equipment
• Receiving a blood transfusion in a country without proper hepatitis B screening (in the UK, blood transfusions are checked for the virus)

It’s important to note that if you’re pregnant and have hepatitis B, the virus can be passed on to your baby during pregnancy or childbirth.

Why get the Hepatitis B vaccine?

Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from hepatitis b and avoid getting unwell for months.

If you’re unsure whether you need the vaccine, speak to your Kamsons pharmacist for personalised advice.

In addition to vaccination, here are some precautions to reduce your risk of hepatitis B:

• Always use a condom or dam for any type of sexual activity
• Avoid sharing razors, toothbrushes, or needles

If You Have Hepatitis B

If you contract hepatitis B, you should take the following steps:

• Avoid alcohol consumption
• Do not share needles, razors, or toothbrushes
• Avoid sexual contact, or use protection if you do, such as a condom or dam
• Rest, drink plenty of fluids, and ensure good ventilation in your room
• If you’re experiencing itching, avoid hot baths and wear loose clothing
• Consult a healthcare professional before taking painkillers, as they may not be suitable for you

Occupational vaccination service

If you require the Hepatitis B vaccine due to your job, we offer occupational health vaccinations for employees. This service works by your employer purchasing vouchers, which allow you to access the vaccines you need. Employers, please feel free to reach out to us via email at contact@kamsons.co.uk

Our vaccination service and how it works

Kamsons Pharmacy offers the Hepatitis B vaccine for £52 per dose. The full vaccination course involves three doses, given on days 0, 30, and 180*. After completing the form below, our prescriber will review your details and, if appropriate, send your prescription to your chosen pharmacy branch. We recommend contacting your chosen pharmacy 2 days after submitting the form to arrange your appointment.

*Accelerated vaccination schedules may be available depending on the vaccine. If you need the course completed faster, please discuss your needs with the pharmacist.

Learn more about the travel vaccinations that we have available. You may also be interested in our period delay or antimalarial services.

FAQs

How effective is the Hepatitis B vaccine?

The vaccine is highly effective, providing immunity to around 90% of adults and over 98% of infants after completing the full course of vaccinations.

Are there any side effects of the Hepatitis B vaccine?

Most people experience no side effects. If side effects occur, they are generally mild and may include soreness at the injection site, fatigue, or mild fever. Serious side effects are rare. You can ask your Kamsons pharmacist about side effects or for the information leaflets.

How soon after getting the vaccine am I protected?

After receiving the first dose, the body may start to develop some protection, but full protection is achieved after completing the entire three-dose course. It can take 1–2 months after the final dose for complete immunity.

How long will the Hepatitis B vaccine protect me?

After completing the full three-dose course, the vaccine provides long-lasting protection, for at least 20 years but often for life. Most people who complete the series develop strong, long-term immunity.

What are the areas at risk of Hepatitis B?

Areas at risk are Africa, Asia, the Middle East and parts of South America and eastern Europe

Where is the Hepatitis B vaccine available?

This vaccine is available at selected Kamsons Pharmacy branches.