Three reasons the Hepatitis B 3 vaccine course is right for you
The full three-dose Hepatitis B vaccine course gives you long-term protection against Hepatitis B infection
It is recommended if you are at ongoing risk through sex, travel, work, or lifestyle factors
Completing the course helps protect you from serious liver disease later in life
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that targets the liver and can cause both short-term and long-term illness. The virus is present in blood and bodily fluids, meaning it can be transmitted in several everyday situations involving close contact.
Sexual contact without a condom with someone who has Hepatitis B
Sharing injecting equipment or other items used to take drugs
Medical or dental procedures in countries with lower hygiene standards
Cosmetic procedures such as tattoos, piercings, or acupuncture with unsterilised equipment
Contact with infected blood through open cuts or wounds
What are the symptoms of a Hepatitis B infection?
Some people with Hepatitis B feel unwell soon after infection, while others may not notice anything at all. Even without symptoms, the virus can still damage the liver. In certain cases, the infection remains in the body and becomes chronic, which increases the risk of cirrhosis or liver cancer.
Symptoms, when they do appear, can include:
Extreme tiredness or weakness
Loss of appetite
Feeling sick or vomiting
Abdominal discomfort, especially on the right side
Dark-coloured urine
Light-coloured bowel movements
Yellowing of the skin and eyes
How does the Hepatitis B vaccine work?
The Hepatitis B vaccine trains your immune system to recognise and fight the virus by exposing your body to a safe, synthetic part of it. This cannot cause infection but allows your body to build protective antibodies.
The standard course involves three injections given over several months. Each dose strengthens your immune response, with the final dose providing long-lasting immunity for most people. In some circumstances, an accelerated schedule may be available depending on your travel plans or risk level.
What can I expect at my Hepatitis B vaccine appointment?
Your vaccine will be given as an injection into your upper arm by a qualified clinician. The appointment is quick, and you will be able to leave shortly afterwards.
Because this is a course, you will need to attend additional appointments for your remaining doses. Our team will explain the timing of each injection and help you arrange your follow-up visits before you leave the clinic.
Will I have a bad reaction to the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Side effects after the Hepatitis B vaccine are usually mild and settle within a couple of days. The most common effects are tenderness, slight swelling, or warmth where the injection was given, along with mild fatigue or a low-grade fever.
Occasionally, people report headaches, muscle aches, or feeling generally unwell for a short time. Severe allergic reactions are extremely rare, but symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or feeling faint require urgent medical attention.
How do I schedule my vaccine appointment?
To arrange your vaccination course, click the “Book Your Appointment” button at the top of the page. Choose your preferred clinic, date, and time, and we will guide you through the rest of your vaccination schedule.
