Hepatitis B *

Hepatitis B Vaccine for International Travelers

Hepatitis B is a serious global health concern, affecting millions and causing significant illness, including chronic liver disease and liver cancer.

In the U.S., hepatitis B vaccination is routinely recommended for all infants, children, and unvaccinated adults.

International travelers are at increased risk when visiting countries where hepatitis B is common.

What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B (HepB) is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can be either acute or chronic and may lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer. It’s estimated that up to 1 million people die each year from complications related to hepatitis B.

How is Hepatitis B Transmitted?

The virus spreads through exposure to infected blood or bodily fluids. Common modes of transmission include:

    • Unprotected sex with an infected partner
    • Sharing needles or syringes
    • Medical or dental procedures using unsterile equipment
    • Exposure through minor cuts, abrasions, or open sores
    • Transmission from mother to baby during childbirth

Who Should Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine?

The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for:

    • All infants (first dose at birth) and unvaccinated children
    • All unvaccinated adults aged 19–59, and adults 60+ with risk factors
    • International travelers to regions with high HepB prevalence
    • People receiving medical or dental care abroad
    • Individuals with high-risk behaviors (e.g., tattoos, new sexual partners, sharing needles)
    • Those with chronic liver disease or HIV

Where is Hepatitis B Most Common?

Travelers are at increased risk in areas with high hepatitis B prevalence, including:

    • Sub-Saharan Africa
    • East and Southeast Asia
    • The Pacific Islands
    • The Amazon Basin of South America
    • Parts of Eastern Europe and Central Asia

See this global prevalence map of hepatitis B for more detail.

Even short visits to these regions can increase your risk.

Hepatitis B Vaccination Schedule

There are two vaccine options:

    • Standard series: 3 doses over 6 months
    • Heplisav-B®: A newer, more effective 2-dose series given 4 weeks apart

Both options provide long-term or lifelong protection once the full series is completed.

Titer Testing for Immunity to Hepatitis B

If you don’t have documentation of prior vaccination—or if proof of immunity is required for work or school—we can order a hepatitis B antibody titer test to check your immune status. This is especially common in healthcare and academic settings.

Why HepB Vaccination Matters for Travelers

Whether you’re heading abroad for business, volunteering, adventure travel, or visiting family, getting vaccinated against hepatitis B is a smart, preventive step—especially if you might need medical care overseas or engage in higher-risk activities.

At TravelBug Health, we can assess your risk, help you determine if you need the hepatitis B vaccine, and recommend the best schedule based on your travel timeline and medical history.

Schedule your visit today and travel with peace of mind.