Hepatitis B vaccine Q&A

Why should I get the hepatitis B vaccine?

Getting the hepatitis B vaccine series is the best way to stay protected against hepatitis B, a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV).

Most people with hepatitis B have it for less than six months. But some people get a long-term infection that can lead to very serious liver issues, like liver failure and liver cancer. Infants and children are more likely to develop a long-lasting hepatitis B infection.

What do I need to know about the hepatitis B vaccine?

The hepatitis B vaccine is given as a series of shots spread out over a short period of time. Depending on the type of hepatitis B vaccine, you may get:

• 2 shots one month apart, OR
• 3 or 4 shots over six months

You need to get all of the shots in the series to be fully protected against hepatitis B.

Who should get the hepatitis B vaccine?

It’s recommended that babies get the hepatitis B vaccine soon after they’re born.

If you didn’t get vaccinated as a baby or child, you should still get the vaccine if:

• You’re age 59 or younger
• You’re age 60 or older and at higher risk of being exposed to hepatitis B

Who is at higher risk of being exposed to hepatitis B?

People are at higher risk if they:

• Work or live in centers for people with developmental disabilities
• Live with someone who has hepatitis B
• Work in a profession where they come into contact with blood, e.g., healthcare
• Have a sexually transmitted infection, including HIV
• Were born male and have sex with men
• Have multiple sexual partners
• Have sex with someone who has hepatitis B
• Inject street drugs or share needles and syringes
• Have chronic liver disease or end-stage kidney disease
• Travel to an area of the world with a high HBV infection rate

Where can I get a hepatitis B vaccine series?

Send us a chat in the Firefly app and we can help figure that out. You can also check with your local pharmacy or health department.

Are there any side effects to getting the hepatitis B vaccine?

Most people don’t have any side effects. Some people experience soreness where the shot was given.