What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBV can cause lifelong infection, cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver, liver cancer, liver failure, and death.

What are the symptoms of Hepatitis B?

Most people with Hepatitis B have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they usually appear 30 to 60 days after exposure to the virus and can include:

Hepatitis B is preventable with vaccination. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective for people of all ages, including infants, children, adolescents, and adults. There are two types of hepatitis B vaccines currently available through Swift Clinics: Twinrix and Engerix-B. Most people need three doses of the vaccine to be fully protected from Hepatitis B.
If you think you may have been exposed to hepatitis B, contact your healthcare provider immediately. There is no specific cure for hepatitis B, but there are treatments available.

How is Hepatitis B transmitted?

Hepatitis B is most commonly transmitted through contact with blood or other body fluids from an infected person. This can happen through:

It is important to note that hepatitis B can also be spread indirectly, for example, by sharing objects that have come into contact with blood from an infected person (such as razors, toothbrushes, and nail clippers).

 

Can Hepatitis B result in serious illness or complications?

Yes. Although most adults with hepatitis B recover completely from the virus, it can lead to a chronic (long-lasting) infection in some people. Chronic hepatitis B is a serious health threat because it can silently damage the liver for many years before symptoms appear. Over time, chronic Hepatitis B can cause liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer – all of which can be deadly. In fact, Hepatitis B is one of the leading causes of liver cancer worldwide.  Vaccination is the best way to prevent Hepatitis B. 

Who is at risk from Hepatitis B?

There are several groups of people who are at heightened risk for Hepatitis B infection. These groups include: 

If you fall into any of these categories, talk to your healthcare provider about getting vaccinated against hepatitis B. Vaccination is the best way to prevent this serious virus, and it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. 

Hepatitis Vaccine is the best prevention!

How often do I need to get the Hepatitis B Vaccine?

Most individuals need to get the hepatitis B vaccine three times over a six-month period. After you have completed the vaccine series, you are considered immune to hepatitis B for atleast 10 years, and likely for lifetime when completing the full series.

What types of vaccines are available for Hepatitis B?

Swift Clinics provides two types of hepatitis B vaccines available: Engerix-B and Twinrix. Engerix-B is given as three shots over a six-month period. Twinrix is a combination vaccine that protects against both hepatitis A and hepatitis B. It is given as three shots over a six-month period. 

Why should I get the Hepatitis B vaccine?

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection that can lead to lifelong illness and death. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective, and it’s the best way to prevent Hepatitis B infection. 

This blog post is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional.  If you have any questions or concerns about hepatitis B, please talk to your healthcare provider.

How long before travel should I get vaccinated for Hepatitis B?

If you are planning to travel to a country where Hepatitis B is common or you will likely be exposed due to a high risk activity, you should get vaccinated at least four weeks before your trip. This will give the vaccine time to become effective. If you cannot get vaccinated four weeks before your trip, you should still get vaccinated as soon as possible. Even if you don’t have time to get the full series of shots, getting even one shot can help protect you from hepatitis B. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective, and it’s the best way to prevent hepatitis B infection. 

What precautions should I take to minimize the chances of getting a Hepatitis B infection when traveling?

There are a few precautions you can take to minimize your risk of hepatitis B infection when traveling:

By taking these precautions, you can help protect yourself from hepatitis B infection. Remember, the best way to prevent hepatitis B is to get vaccinated against the virus. Talk to your healthcare provider about getting vaccinated before your next trip.  

Which countries and regions present a higher risk of Hepatitis B transmission?

Hepatitis B is found throughout the world, but some countries and regions present a higher risk of hepatitis B transmission.

Countries with a high prevalence of hepatitis B include Africa, Asia, the Pacific Islands, and certain parts of Central and South America. In these regions, hepatitis B is often spread through contact with contaminated blood or other body fluids. If you are planning to travel to any of these areas, it is important to get vaccinated against hepatitis B before you go. 

If you are traveling to a country where hepatitis B is common, make sure to get vaccinated against the virus. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective, and it’s the best way to prevent hepatitis B infection.

If you are travelling to any of these areas, it is important to talk to your health care provider about getting vaccinated against Hepatitis B. There are several options available for Hepatitis B vaccination through Swift Clinics, such as Twinrix or Engerix. 

You can schedule your appointment online now by clicking here, or call us at our toll-free number.

Disclaimer : This general information is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional.  If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider.

Have a Question? Get in touch with us!