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Vaccination Against Hepatitis A and B

Hepatitis A and B are serious liver inflammations caused by a virus. Vaccination offers effective protection and is especially recommended for travellers. Our specialists will help you choose the most suitable vaccination course, explain how the vaccine works, and advise you on any questions you may have.

Text reviewed by specialist:

Valeria Boitsova

Nurse

Published

Text updated

Who should get vaccinated?

  • People travelling to high-risk areas. If you are planning a trip to countries where the prevalence of Hepatitis A and B is high, vaccination is an important protection.
  • People with occupational exposure. Healthcare workers and others whose work involves contact with blood or body fluids need protection against Hepatitis B.
  • People with risk behaviours. Individuals with risk behaviours (e.g., unprotected sexual intercourse, injecting drugs) should consider Hepatitis B vaccination.
  • People with chronic liver diseases. For people with existing liver diseases, preventing hepatitis is particularly important.
  • Hepatitis A is mainly spread through contaminated food and water, while Hepatitis B is spread through blood and body fluids.

Common symptoms

  • Constant fatigue and loss of appetite

    Prolonged exhaustion and loss of appetite can be a sign of a slowly developing liver inflammation.

  • Dark urine and pale stool

    Changes in the colour of your excretions are symptoms that can help us determine the health of your liver.

  • Itching and indigestion

    General skin itching accompanied by nausea is often a symptom of viral hepatitis.

  • Pain on the right side under the ribs

    Discomfort or pain in the liver area is a complaint that requires prompt consultation with a specialist.

How to prepare for your appointment

  • Identity document: Bring your ID card or another identity document.
  • Travel plans: Think about your travel plans and possible destinations so we can assess the risks.
  • Questions: Write down any questions you may have about the vaccination or hepatitis.
  • Allergies and previous vaccinations: Inform the nurse or doctor about any known allergies and previous vaccinations.

What to expect during your appointment

Consultation and medical history

We will discuss your travel plans, health condition, and previous vaccinations to assess the need for vaccination.

Counselling

We will explain the nature of Hepatitis A and B, the importance of vaccination, possible side effects, and the vaccination schedule.

Vaccine administration

The nurse will administer the vaccine according to current guidelines, usually into the muscle of the upper arm.

Follow-up

We will provide instructions for the next vaccine doses and information on possible side effects.
Information about your vaccination will be sent to the national health portal.

Specialists providing this service

  • Aleksandra Levitskaja

    Nurse

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre, Mobile occupational health examination

  • Aleksandra Skripka

    Nurse

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre

  • Alina Maspanova

    Nurse

    Kvartal Clinic – Specialist Medical Care and Occupational Health

  • Alisa Aleksejeva

    Nurse

    Ülemiste Health Centre, Mobile occupational health examination

  • Anastasia Grudkina

    Nurse

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre, Mobile occupational health examination

    Book appointment
  • dr Andreas Abel

    General practitioner

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre, Rävala Clinic – Specialist Medical Care and Occupational Health, Digikliinik

    Book appointment

Payment & Appointment Info

Payment methods

Meliva Health Insurance covers this service under Vaccination coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.

Referral

You can book this service as a self-paying patient without a doctor’s referral.

Clinics offering this service

Related services

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a liver inflammation caused by a virus, which is mainly spread through contaminated food and drinking water. It can cause acute and severe symptoms, especially in adults.

What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a liver inflammation caused by a virus, which is spread through blood and other body fluids. It can cause a chronic infection, which increases the risk of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Is the Hepatitis A and B vaccination painful?

The vaccine injection may cause mild pain or discomfort at the injection site, but this is usually short-lived and temporary.

How long does the protection from the Hepatitis A and B vaccine last?

After completing the full vaccination schedule, the Hepatitis A vaccine provides lifelong protection, and the Hepatitis B vaccine provides long-term protection that usually lasts for life.

Do I need a booster shot?

For Hepatitis A, protection is lifelong after two doses. For the combined Hepatitis A and B vaccine, a booster is not usually needed after the three-dose course.

When should I get vaccinated before a trip?

You should get the first dose of the Hepatitis A vaccine at least two weeks before your trip to ensure initial protection. Several doses are needed to achieve full protection.

Can the Hepatitis A and B vaccine be given at the same time as other vaccines?

Yes, Hepatitis A and B vaccines can generally be administered at the same time as other vaccines, but this decision is always made by a doctor or nurse based on your health condition.

Are there any side effects to the vaccination?

Side effects are usually mild and temporary, such as pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Less commonly, a headache or mild fever may occur. Serious side effects are very rare.

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