Are you actually protected against Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B vaccination has been part of Ontario's school immunization program since 1984. That means most adults under 45 received it — but many have incomplete records, partial series, or coverage gaps that leave them unprotected for travel to high-endemic regions.
Before your trip to Southeast Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, or South Asia, it's worth confirming your Hepatitis B status.
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a viral liver infection spread through blood and bodily fluids — unprotected sex, needle sharing, and contaminated medical, dental, or tattooing equipment. Unlike Hepatitis A (spread through contaminated food), Hepatitis B is a blood-borne infection that causes chronic liver disease in up to 10% of adults who are acutely infected.
Hepatitis B is endemic at high rates in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia), sub-Saharan Africa, and parts of South Asia.
Hepatitis B vaccines available in Canada
- Engerix-B (GlaxoSmithKline): single-antigen Hep B vaccine, 3-dose schedule
- Recombivax HB (Merck): single-antigen Hep B vaccine, 3-dose schedule
- Twinrix (GlaxoSmithKline): combined Hep A + Hep B — covers both infections in one schedule
Twinrix — why it's usually the better choice for travellers
If you need both Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B protection (most travellers to developing regions do), Twinrix is the most efficient option. One schedule covers both infections — rather than managing two separate injection timelines.
Twinrix has two schedule options:
| Schedule | Doses | Timing | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 3 doses | 0, 1, 6 months | Planned travel 6+ months out |
| Accelerated | 3 doses + booster | 0, 7, 21 days; booster at 12 months | Travel in 3–4 weeks |
The accelerated Twinrix schedule provides protection in just 3 weeks — very useful for last-minute travel planning.
How much does Twinrix cost in Canada?
Twinrix costs approximately $90–$130 per dose in Canada. The 3-dose series costs approximately $270–$390 total. Many extended health benefit plans cover Twinrix — we provide official itemized receipts for all services. Not covered by OHIP.
Who needs Hepatitis B vaccine for travel?
- Adults who are unvaccinated or have incomplete records (fewer than 3 doses)
- Travellers to Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia — high endemic regions
- Travellers to India, Bangladesh, Nepal — very high endemic regions
- Travellers to Kenya, Tanzania, all sub-Saharan Africa
- Anyone receiving medical, dental, or cosmetic procedures abroad
Book your Hepatitis B + Twinrix consultation
Our ISTM CTH® physicians review your vaccination history, confirm your Hep B status, and recommend the right schedule. Virtual consultations from Mississauga, Ottawa, Brampton, and all of Ontario.
Sources: PHAC Travel Health | CDC Yellow Book — Hepatitis B
Need travel health advice?
Our licensed physicians create a personalized travel health plan for your destination. Vaccines administered at our Toronto pharmacy.
Book your consultation