Back to all vaccinations

    Hepatitis B – adults

    Protects against chronic liver inflammation caused by the hepatitis B virus.

    Protects against

    Chronic liver inflammation, liver cancer

    Validity

    Lifelong after complete series

    Schedule

    3 doses: 0, 1 and 6 months

    Side effects

    Usually mild

    About Hepatitis B

    Hepatitis B is a viral liver infection that can become chronic and lead to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. The virus is highly contagious and can survive outside the body for a long time.

    How is it transmitted?

    The virus spreads through blood and body fluids: sexual contact, shared needles, contaminated medical instruments, or from mother to child at birth. It is 50-100x more contagious than HIV.

    Symptoms

    Often no symptoms at first
    Fatigue
    Abdominal pain
    Nausea
    Dark urine
    Jaundice
    Joint pain

    Possible complications

    • Chronic infection (5-10% in adults)
    • Liver cirrhosis (scarring of the liver)
    • Liver cancer
    • Liver failure

    Risk areas

    Sub-Saharan AfricaAsia (especially East and Southeast Asia)Pacific islandsParts of South America

    Risk groups

    People receiving medical care in risk countriesPeople with multiple sexual partnersPeople getting tattoos or piercingsLong-term residents in risk areas

    About the vaccination

    Vaccine type

    Recombinant vaccine

    How does it work?

    The vaccine contains a protein from the hepatitis B virus, made with recombinant DNA technology. This stimulates your immune system to produce protective antibodies.

    ⏱️ When to vaccinate?

    Ideally 6 months before departure (for complete series). Accelerated schedule possible.

    Effectiveness

    Very high: >95% protection after complete series.

    Who should get this vaccination?

    • Travelers to risk areas (especially for longer stays)
    • People who may need medical care in risk countries
    • People with multiple sexual partners
    • People who may come into contact with blood

    Not suitable for

    • People with severe allergic reaction to previous dose or yeast
    • People with severe acute illness (postpone vaccination)

    Possible side effects

    Mild local reactions, sometimes fatigue or headache.

    Book an appointment?

    Contact us for personal advice about your vaccinations.

    Personal care

    We respect your preferences. You can choose a male or female practitioner.

    Short waiting time

    Usually available within a week. Call for urgent appointments.

    View pricing

    Check our competitive prices for all vaccinations →

    Frequently asked questions

    How long is the hepatitis B vaccination valid?

    After a complete series, protection is lifelong for most people. A booster is normally not needed; for some occupations the antibody level is checked.

    How many doses does hepatitis B vaccination require?

    The standard schedule is three doses: day 0, after one month and after six months. An accelerated schedule is possible if you travel soon.

    When do you need hepatitis B vaccination?

    For longer stays in regions where hepatitis B is common, for healthcare work, for tattoos or piercings abroad and for medical procedures on location.

    Can hepatitis A and B be combined?

    Yes, a combination vaccine against hepatitis A and B exists, which reduces the number of injections if you need both.

    Need more vaccinations?

    View all travel vaccinations we offer or book an appointment for personal advice.

    DKliniek Travel Assistant

    AI-powered travel health advice

    👋 Hi! I'm the DKliniek Travel Assistant. Ask me anything about travel vaccinations, destinations or health advice!

    Popular questions: