Vaccinations aim to prevent you from contracting certain illnesses by injecting a small amount of the virus, (the sample is dead and does not cause illness), into the body. This triggers an immune response which means the body can destroy the virus if it comes into contact with it in the future. You develop immunity to that virus.
There are vaccines available for both Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B, these can be given free of charge in STI clinics.
Before receiving a vaccine for Hepatitis A and/or Hepatitis B you will have a blood test to check if you have ever been exposed to them. If you haven’t you will be able to go ahead with the vaccination process. There will be another blood test at the end of the process to check to if it has been successful and you have developed immunity.
Hepatitis A
The vaccine for Hepatitis A consists of two injections:
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First injection.
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Second injection – six months after the first injection.
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Blood test to check immunity.
Hepatitis B
The vaccine for Hepatitis B consists of three injections:
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First injection.
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Second injection – one month after the first injection.
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Third injection – six months after the first injection.
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Blood test to check immunity.
Combination Hepatitis A and B Vaccine
This vaccine aims to provide immunity to both Hepatitis A and B; it consists of three injections:
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First injection.
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Second injection – one month after the first injection.
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Third injection – six months after the first injection.
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Blood test to check immunity.
Frequently asked Questions
Are there any side effects?
Vaccines, like any medicine, can cause side effects from the very mild to a more serious allergic reaction (this however is rare). You may experience pain where the shot was given and some people may experience a mild fever.
Does the vaccine work in everybody?
The vaccine works in the majority of cases. A blood test after the vaccination process will confirm whether or not it has worked.
How long does immunity last?
Most people develop long–lasting immunity (sometimes life-long). This is not the case for everyone; please check with your doctor about this. Booster injections can be given to people to lengthen immunity. If you are living withHIV or other types of Hepatitis eg Hepatitis C, you may not have the same immune response and may therefore require booster injections.
Can you only get Hepatitis A and B Vaccines in STI Clinics?
No. Some GPs provide vaccination programmes as well as travel vaccination clinics. There will be a cost for this and it can vary from clinic to clinic.