Hepatitis A and B Vaccination

• Sub-Saharan Africa: Countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya.

• South Asia: Including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

• Southeast Asia: Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia.

• Central and South America: Including Brazil, Peru, and Mexico.

• Eastern Europe and Central Asia: Countries like Russia, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan.

• The Caribbean: Including Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

Traveling to High-Risk Areas
Travellers to regions with high endemic rates of hepatitis A and B should consider vaccination to prevent infection.

Live in Endemic Areas
Residents of areas where hepatitis A and B are common should be vaccinated, especially if sanitation is poor or healthcare access is limited.

Occupational Risk
Healthcare workers, aid workers, and others who might be exposed to these viruses in their line of work should be vaccinated.

Certain Medical Conditions
Individuals with chronic liver disease or other conditions that increase susceptibility to liver infections should consider vaccination.

High-Risk Behaviours
Those who engage in activities that increase the risk of exposure to hepatitis B, such as intravenous drug use or unprotected sex, should be vaccinated.

Hepatitis A Infection
This can cause symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea. While usually self-limiting, it can lead to severe liver complications, especially in older adults and those with pre-existing liver conditions.

Hepatitis B Infection
This can cause both acute and chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. Chronic hepatitis B can lead to long-term health issues and requires ongoing medical management.

Outbreaks in Communities
Low vaccination rates can lead to outbreaks, especially in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water or healthcare.

Standard Schedule
Three Doses: The initial dose, followed by a second dose at 1 month, and a third dose at 6 months. This schedule is designed to provide long-term immunity.

Accelerated Schedule
Four Doses: The initial dose, followed by additional doses at 7 days, 21-30 days, and a booster at 12 months. This schedule is used when rapid protection is needed, such as for last-minute travellers.