Hepatitis B vaccination for adults

Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood or other bodily fluids. Common routes of transmission include medical, dental, cosmetic, or hairdressing procedures that involve skin penetration, especially when non-sterile equipment is used, as well as unprotected sexual contact. Vaccination is the most effective method of preventing hepatitis B infection.

About hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a contagious disease caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which is approximately 100 times more infectious than HIV. The virus is typically spread through exposure to contaminated blood, unprotected sex, or during childbirth. While the acute phase of the disease may pass unnoticed due to a lack of symptoms, it can progress to chronic infection. Chronic hepatitis B is often diagnosed only after significant liver damage, such as cirrhosis, has occurred. It is also a major risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (a type of liver cancer).

Who should be vaccinated

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all individuals who have not been previously immunized, including:

• Individuals preparing for planned surgery,
• Travelers to regions where hepatitis B is endemic (e.g., Africa, Southeast Asia, the Eastern Mediterranean),
• Healthcare workers and others at increased risk of exposure to the virus,
• Women who are planning to become pregnant.

Who is the vaccine for

The hepatitis B vaccine is intended for adults and young adults aged 16 and older.

Vaccination procedure

The vaccine is administered via intramuscular injection. The standard adult vaccination schedule includes three doses:

• The first dose is given on a selected appointment date.
• The second dose is administered one month after the first.
• The third dose is given six months after the first dose.
• A faster vaccination schedule may be arranged during the initial consultation if needed.

What does the vaccine contain?

The vaccine contains the surface antigen of the hepatitis B virus (HBsAg).

How long does the vaccine provide protection?

Completing the full vaccination series results in a long-lasting immune response. In healthy individuals, this protection is considered lifelong. Current research indicates that there is no need for routine antibody testing or booster doses in individuals who have completed the full primary vaccination series.

Although antibody levels may decline over time, the immune system retains memory of the virus, ensuring long-term protection against hepatitis B.

The vaccination may cause side effects.

The most commonly reported side effects are:

• Pain and tenderness at the injection site
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Stomach pain
• Drowsiness
• Headaches
• Decreased appetite
• Fever (≥ 37.5°C / 99.5°F)
• General feeling of being unwell

Contraindications to vaccination include:

• Hypersensitivity to any component of the vaccine.
• Severe illness accompanied by fever – vaccination should be postponed in such cases.

Make sure you book your vaccination appointment within 3 months of the date shown on your order confirmation.

1. First, select the city/town and Medicover Medical Centre where you wish to be vaccinated.

   IMPORTANT: The vaccination does not include an appointment with a travel medicine doctor. If this is not included in the health plan, patients should purchase the qualification separately.

2. After paying for the vaccination package, please book a Vaccine Qualification appointment - this is mandatory before any vaccine is administered. The vaccination will take place immediately after the qualification appointment. Book your appointment at the reception of the Medicover Medical Centre or call the Medicover hotline on +48 500 900 550.
3. If the doctor does not qualify you for the vaccination, you will need to book a follow-up appointment on a date specified by the doctor. This follow-up appointment will be charged extra, unless it is already included in your healthcare package.