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Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by a virus that is spread through blood, semen and vaginal fluids. The severity of the resulting illness can range from mild to fatal. Although the infection may only last for a few months, it can remain long term.
The Vaccine
Who can have this vaccine?
Adults and children over 1 month (the accelerated option is only suitable for adults 18 years+)
Doses required
3 doses
Since late 2017, all babies in the UK have been offered 3 doses of Hepatitis B vaccination at 8, 12 and 16 weeks of age.
For people not immunised, a 3 dose schedule can be given - the second dose should be 1 month after the first; the third dose should be 5 months after the second.
An accelerated option is possible for adults over 18 years with the second dose 7 days after the first, and the third dose 2 weeks after the second. A booster dose is required 12 months after the first dose for lifelong protection.
Price
£70 per dose
How is it given?
This is an injection in the upper arm (or thigh).
How long does protection last?
20-30 years or more
Other information
Side effects can include pain and redness at the site of the injection, headache, fever, tiredness, dizziness, nausea, diarrhoea or abdominal pain. Please refer to the patient leaflet for a full list of potential side effects, including those that are uncommon or rare.
Patient Leaflet
Please refer to the patient leaflet for full information on this vaccine: