Adult vaccine
Hepatitis B Vaccine
The hepatitis B vaccine protects against a serious liver infection spread through blood and body fluids. Babies get it in the 6-in-1, and it is offered to people at higher risk.
What it protects against
It protects against hepatitis B, a viral liver infection spread through blood and body fluids that can become long-term (chronic) and lead to liver damage, cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Who it's for
All babies (as part of the 6-in-1 vaccine), and adults and children at higher risk — for example healthcare workers, close contacts of infected people, and travellers to some areas.
How it works
It contains a protein from the surface of the virus, prompting the immune system to make protective antibodies. It is usually given as a course of doses.
Safety
Safety and side effects
It is safe and well tolerated. Common effects are soreness at the injection site, tiredness and headache, which quickly settle.
Education and reference only. This is general information, not a personal recommendation, and does not list doses — follow the current NHS schedule and your clinician's advice. Seek urgent help for signs of a serious allergic reaction after any vaccine.
Answers
Hepatitis B Vaccine: frequently asked questions
Why do babies get the hepatitis B vaccine?
Hepatitis B is included in the routine 6-in-1 baby vaccine because infection in early life is more likely to become long-term and cause serious liver damage later, so early protection is valuable.
Who else should have the hepatitis B vaccine?
People at higher risk of exposure, such as some healthcare workers, close household or sexual contacts of infected people, and certain travellers, are offered the vaccine.
Related
Other adult vaccines
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Vaccinations
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) — the Green Book
- WHO — immunization
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