Hepatitis A and B Vaccine in Surrey: Comprehensive Guide for Travellers

Travelling abroad can be a fulfilling experience, but it’s vital to protect your health by preparing for risks like Hepatitis A and B. Surrey Travel Clinics, located in Horton (Epsom) and Oxshott, specialise in travel health advice and vaccinations to keep you safe during your journey.

What are Hepatitis A and B?

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a viral liver infection transmitted through contaminated food or water, often occurring in areas with poor sanitation standards. Although typically short-term, Hepatitis A can cause significant illness, especially in adults.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a viral infection transmitted through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. It poses a risk from activities like unprotected sex, contaminated medical equipment, tattoos, piercings, and accidents requiring medical treatment abroad.

Both infections can cause liver inflammation and serious complications, particularly Hepatitis B, which can lead to chronic liver disease or liver cancer.

Symptoms of Hepatitis A and B

Common symptoms for both conditions include:

• Fever and fatigue

• Loss of appetite

• Nausea or vomiting

• Abdominal pain

• Dark urine

• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)

Symptoms may appear weeks to months after exposure, highlighting the importance of preventive vaccination.

Detailed information from the NHS about Hepatitis A

Detailed information from the NHS about Hepatitis B

Countries Where Hepatitis A and B Vaccines are Recommended

Vaccination is recommended for travellers visiting:

• Africa

• Asia (India, China, Thailand, Indonesia)

• Central and South America

• Eastern Europe

• The Middle East

• The Caribbean

For country-specific recommendations, consult the Fitfortravel website.

Get Your Hepatitis A and B Vaccines in Surrey

Surrey Travel Clinics provide convenient access to Hepatitis A and B vaccinations at two easy-to-reach branches in Horton and Oxshott:

Horton Branch

• Location: Horton Local Centre, Pelman Way, Epsom KT19 8HJ

• Telephone: 01372 721749

• Opening Times: Monday–Friday (9 am–6 pm), Saturday (9 am–1 pm), Sunday Closed

Oxshott Branch

• Location: Oxshott Village Pharmacy, Braeside House, High St, Oxshott, Leatherhead KT22 0JP

• Telephone: 01372 233585

• Opening Times: Monday–Friday (9 am–6 pm), Saturday (9 am–1 pm), Sunday Closed

Residents from Epsom, Oxshott, Leatherhead, Chessington, and neighbouring Surrey areas benefit from our accessible clinics, convenient parking, and proximity to local public transport.

Vaccination Schedule

The combined Hepatitis A and B vaccine is administered as a course of three injections over six months. An accelerated schedule is also available for those with imminent travel plans:

• Standard Schedule: Day 0, 1 month, and 6 months

• Accelerated Schedule: Day 0, 7 days, and 21 days, followed by a booster dose after 12 months

Our pharmacists will recommend the most suitable schedule based on your travel dates and medical history.

Potential Side Effects

The Hepatitis A and B vaccines are generally safe. Mild side effects may include:

• Tenderness or swelling at the injection site

• Mild fever

• Headache

• Fatigue

Severe side effects are rare, and our trained healthcare professionals at Horton and Oxshott clinics will address any concerns you may have.

When Should You Get Vaccinated?

We advise starting your vaccine course at least four weeks before travel for optimal protection. However, even if your departure is sooner, vaccination can still significantly reduce your risk.

Additional Precautions

Alongside vaccination, protect yourself further by:

• Practising good hygiene

• Avoiding drinking tap water and ice in high-risk areas

• Avoiding uncooked or poorly cooked food

• Using protective measures during sexual activities

• Ensuring sterile medical procedures

Surrey Travel Clinics: Expert Advice, Convenient Locations

At Surrey Travel Clinics, we offer residents from Horton, Epsom, Oxshott, Leatherhead, and surrounding areas comprehensive travel health solutions. Our clinics near major transport hubs like Epsom railway station and key roadways such as the A24 and M25 ensure easy access.

Schedule Your Hepatitis A and B Vaccine Today

Book your Hepatitis vaccination appointment today at Surrey Travel Clinics:

Horton Branch:

• Call: 01372 721749

Oxshott Branch:

• Call: 01372 233585

Book online now and ensure you travel safely and confidently.