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Hepatitis B Vaccine

Hepatitis B is a bloodborne viral liver infection. The vaccine provides lifelong protection and is recommended for travellers with potential exposure through medical care, new partners, or adventure activities.

Protects against
Hepatitis B virus (HBV)
Doses
Standard: 3 doses at 0, 1, 6 months | Accelerated: 0, 7, 21 days plus 1 year
Schedule
Ideally start 6 months before travel; accelerated schedules available
Duration
Lifelong protection after full series

What it protects against

Hepatitis B virus (HBV), spread through blood, sexual contact, and body fluids.

Who should get it

  • Long-stay travellers (>6 months)
  • Medical/humanitarian workers, divers, adventure travellers
  • Travellers considering medical/dental care abroad
  • All unvaccinated adults (universal recommendation)

Not recommended for

  • Severe allergy to yeast or vaccine component

Destinations where Hepatitis B is recommended

Widespread — high prevalence in Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, Pacific Islands

Side effects & safety

  • Mild soreness
  • Low-grade fever uncommon
  • Very safe

Key facts

  • 1Often given as Twinrix (Hep A + B combined) for efficiency
  • 2Accelerated schedules available for last-minute travel

Need the hepatitis b for your trip?

Book a virtual consultation with a licensed Canadian physician. We'll review your itinerary, issue the prescription, and administer the vaccine at our Toronto pharmacy.

Book your consultation

Frequently asked: Hepatitis B Vaccine

Do I need Hep B if I'm just doing a tourist trip?

For short resort trips, Hep B is a lower priority than Hep A and typhoid. For longer stays, medical procedures abroad, or adventurous itineraries, it is strongly recommended — and universally recommended for all adults anyway.

Explore other travel vaccines

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Recommendations vary based on your health history, destination, and planned activities. A consultation with our licensed physician is required before any prescription or vaccine is issued.