Hepatitis B
A liver infection spread through blood, sexual contact, and contaminated medical or cosmetic equipment. Recommended for most travellers, especially those with longer stays or possible medical exposure.
What it is
Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by a virus. Some people clear it; others develop a long-term infection that can damage the liver over years.
How it spreads
It spreads through blood and body fluids — sex, shared needles, unsterile medical or dental equipment, tattoos, and piercings. It can also pass from mother to baby at birth.
Dosing & timing
- Primary series
- Two or three shots in your arm depending on the brand. The 3-dose series runs over 6 months. A 2-dose series runs about a month apart.
- Boosters
- Boosters are usually not needed for healthy adults once the series is complete.
- Before you travel
- Partial protection starts after the first dose. If you have time, complete the series before you leave. An accelerated schedule (over a few weeks) is available if combined with hepatitis A.
Who should consider it
CDC recommends hepatitis B vaccination for nearly everyone, with screening at least once in adulthood. For travel, it is especially relevant if you might have new sexual partners, get medical or dental care abroad, or get a tattoo or piercing.
Countries where CDC recommends this
Click any country for its full vaccine list.
Recommended for most travellers
Recommended for some travellers
Side effects and safety
Common (most resolve in a day or two)
- Soreness where the shot was given
- Mild fever
- Feeling tired
Serious but rare
- Severe allergic reaction (very rare)
Who should not get it
Skip it if you have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or to baker's yeast.
Common questions
Do I really need hepatitis B if I'm only going for a holiday?
If you are not planning new sexual partners, medical procedures, tattoos, or piercings, your risk is low. Most adults are protected from childhood vaccination anyway.
How long does hepatitis B protection last?
After the full series, protection is long-term for most healthy adults. Boosters are usually not needed.
Can I get hepatitis A and B in one vaccine?
Yes — a combined hepatitis A and B vaccine is available, sometimes on a faster schedule. Ask your doctor.
Plan ahead: Talk to a travel health doctor 4 to 6 weeks before departure so you can fit in as many doses as possible before you leave.
Source: CDC — Hepatitis B.
Disclaimer:This information is for general guidance only, based on CDC Travelers' Health. It does not replace advice from a qualified travel health professional. Consult a doctor 4–6 weeks before your trip.