Hepatitis A and B - vaccination

The hepatitis A/B vaccine is a combination vaccine protecting against both hepatitis A and B. It is administered on the same schedule as hepatitis B and provides the same protection as both vaccines.

Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. Unlike other forms of hepatitis, A is not a life-long infection. The majority of infections are in travellers.

The virus spreads through contaminated food and water. It is found in some of the most popular destinations like Mexico, Brazil and South Africa. But, a few hundred cases occur every year. Ensure you’re protected at home and abroad with a vaccine against this disease.

Hepatitis A vaccination recommended for food service, healthcare and other fields where the infection could easily spread. Many hepatitis A outbreaks are linked to food service workers having the disease or not following proper precautions.

Hepatitis B is another liver infection. But, unlike A, it is transmitted through blood, blood products and body fluids. HBV is most often spread through contaminated needles, sex or poor medical or dental hygiene practices. It is believed up to 250 million people have chronic hepatitis B.

The virus affects the liver after a 90 day incubation period. Because of the long timeframe, travellers can return home not knowing they were infected. Be sure to take precautions including vaccination.

Individuals working in healthcare or occupationally hazardous fields are at an increased risk. This includes nurses, some industrial jobs and hospitality workers. Vaccination may be required as part of employment protocol.

Like the hepatitis A and B vaccines, hepatitis A/B does require booster jabs to be fully effective. One booster is needed at a month and another after six months. Hepatitis A/B booster vaccines are not needed in order to travel as the vaccine is effective within two weeks of the first dose. But, the injections should be given for lifetime immunity to both hepatitis A and B.