avi medical
    Prevention & Vaccinations

    Hepatitis B Vaccination

    Hepatitis B is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids and can become chronic. The vaccination is part of standard immunization and provides long-term protection.

    • STIKO-recommended
    • Incl. observation at the practice

    Who should be vaccinated against Hepatitis B?

    Hepatitis B is transmitted through blood and body fluids and can become chronic — with the risk of cirrhosis or liver cancer. The vaccination is part of standard immunization and is recommended for all infants, children, and adolescents. For adults, vaccination is recommended for occupational risk, travel to risk countries, or other risk situations. The vaccination provides long-term, often lifelong protection.

    WHO IT'S FOR

    Who Needs This Vaccination?

    If you are planning a trip to North America, Australia, Central Africa, or South-East Asia, you should be vaccinated, as these regions have the highest rates of chronic infection. This is particularly important when risk factors are present, for example close contact with the local population, potential sexual contacts, travel abroad for medical procedures (e.g. dental treatment or cosmetic surgery), dialysis treatment whilst travelling, long-term stays in countries with limited medical care, tattoos, piercings, or an occupational risk.

    VACCINATION SCHEDULE

    How the Vaccination Works

    The hepatitis B vaccine is an inactivated vaccine and is often administered in combination with hepatitis A. The primary immunisation course consists of three injections given over 6 months. Full protection is only achieved after the third vaccination. If you are short on time due to a spontaneous trip, an accelerated vaccination schedule is also available. Routine booster vaccinations against hepatitis B are not recommended by STIKO. A booster is only recommended in cases of particular risk.

    In general, the vaccine is very well tolerated. However, in 10% of those vaccinated, brief general symptoms such as headache or fatigue may occur.

    Do I Need to Be Vaccinated Against Hepatitis B?

    To find out which vaccinations are advisable for your planned trip, simply book an appointment for travel medicine advice at one of our avi practices and discuss this with our medical team. The team will advise you on everything you need to be aware of so that you can travel safely and with peace of mind on your next trip.

    VACCINATION PROCESS

    How it works at avi

    We provide comprehensive information about the vaccination and are available for all your questions.

    1. 1

      Information Consultation

      We inform you about the vaccination, possible side effects, and answer all your questions.

    2. 2

      History & Vaccination Advice

      We review your vaccination status, pre-existing conditions, and allergies to ensure safe administration.

    3. 3

      Vaccination

      The vaccination is administered with minimal pain into the upper arm muscle.

    4. 4

      Observation Period

      You stay in the practice briefly for safety so we can react immediately to rare immediate reactions.

    PREPARATION & AFTERCARE

    Preparation & Aftercare

    Before the appointment

    • Bring your vaccination record

      So we can verify your vaccination status and document the new vaccination.

    • Clarify acute illnesses

      We postpone vaccination in case of fever or acute infections. Please let us know in advance.

    After the appointment

    • Take it easy

      Avoid intense physical exertion and sports for 1-2 days.

    • Normal reactions

      Local redness, swelling, or mild fever are normal and usually subside within 1-3 days.

    • Report severe symptoms

      For shortness of breath, circulatory problems, or persistent high fever, contact a doctor immediately.

    Side effects

    Redness, swelling, warmth, or mild pain at the injection site. Usually subside within 1-2 days.

    Fatigue, headache, mild muscle aches, or low-grade fever. Usually mild and short-lived.

    In very rare cases, allergic reactions to vaccine components may occur. This is why post-vaccination observation takes place in our practice.

    Severe immediate reactions are extremely rare. We are prepared in our practice and can react immediately.

    Costs & insurance

    Covered by statutory insurance

    Standard coverage for all statutory health insurance members.

    Private / self-pay

    from €65

    FAQ

    Frequently asked questions: Hepatitis B Vaccination

    STIKO recommends the vaccination for all children and adolescents. Adults should get vaccinated if they are at increased risk: for example with certain pre-existing conditions or a weakened immune system, close contact with people who have hepatitis B, sexual behaviour with an increased risk of infection, an occupational risk such as in healthcare and, depending on the destination and type of travel, before trips.

    The primary course usually consists of three vaccinations: the second one month after the first, the third six months after the first. There is an accelerated schedule before short-notice trips. A combination vaccine protects against hepatitis A and B at the same time. After a successful primary course, most people do not need a booster.

    If STIKO recommends the vaccination for you, for example because of a pre-existing condition, statutory health insurance covers the cost. For occupational risk, your employer usually pays. As a travel vaccination, many insurers reimburse the cost voluntarily, so check with yours beforehand. If you pay yourself, it costs from €65 at avi.