A brief history
Hepatitis B was once known as serum hepatitis because of its association with blood exposure. Discovery of its surface antigen in 1965 helped researchers understand and diagnose the infection. The first vaccines were introduced in the 1980s.
How does it spread?
The virus spreads through infected blood and certain body fluids, including during sex, shared needle use or procedures involving contaminated equipment. It can also pass from mother to baby around birth. It is not spread through food, water or ordinary social contact.
Symptoms and possible complications
Some infections cause no obvious symptoms; others cause fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain and jaundice. Infection can become chronic, especially when acquired early in life. Over time, chronic hepatitis B can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure or liver cancer. Vaccination helps prevent infection but does not treat an existing infection.
Where it may be relevant
- Travellers who may have sexual, medical, occupational or tattooing exposure
- Healthcare and emergency workers
- Long-stay travellers and people visiting friends and relatives in higher-prevalence settings
Dose schedules
The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.
Standard course
Adults and children
Accelerated course
When product and age allow
The fourth dose is important for sustained protection.
Who may be eligible
- Adults and children needing occupational, travel, medical or lifestyle protection
- People requiring completion of a documented earlier course
Who may not be eligible
- Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
- People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually
Potential side effects
- Pain, redness or swelling where the injection is given
- Headache, tiredness, muscle aches or a mild fever
- Feeling faint around the time of vaccination
Important risks and precautions
- A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
- Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
- The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment
Clinical references