Combined Hepatitis A & B Vaccination Fulham

Hepatitis A and B are viruses that infect the liver and can cause inflammation. Hepatitis A often spreads through contaminated food or water and usually causes short-term illness. Hepatitis B spreads through blood and body fluids and can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis or liver cancer. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent both infections. The combined vaccine contains inactivated hepatitis A proteins and hepatitis B surface antigen. It prompts your immune system to recognise and block the real viruses if you are exposed.

You should consider the combined vaccine if you plan to travel to areas with higher risk of either virus, work in health or laboratory settings, or have lifestyle factors that increase exposure risk. NHS travel advice recommends vaccination at least two weeks before departure for areas where hepatitis A or B is common. People with certain medical conditions, such as chronic liver disease, are also advised to vaccinate. We assess your personal risk factors during consultation and recommend the appropriate schedule.

Adults usually need three injections at zero, one and six months for full protection. Some accelerated schedules exist for urgent travel: zero, seven and twenty-one days, plus a booster at twelve months. Hepatitis A alone requires two doses six to twelve months apart. If you start the combined course, it covers both viruses. We explain options and set reminders to help you complete the series on time.

Yes. The combined hepatitis A & B vaccine is licensed in the UK and used widely since the 1990s. Common side effects are mild and include soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever or fatigue. Severe reactions are rare. Vaccine safety is monitored by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. Our nurse observes you for ten minutes after each dose to ensure you feel well before leaving.

Children aged one year and older can receive the combined vaccine if they require both hepatitis A and B protection. NHS routine infant immunisation covers hepatitis B only in some at-risk groups. For travel or other indications, we offer private vaccination from age one. Doses and intervals differ for children; we tailor the schedule to age and health status. Paracetamol is recommended after vaccination if a fever occurs.

If you miss a dose, contact us to reschedule as soon as possible. Catch-up schedules remain effective. You do not need to restart the entire course; we continue from the next due dose. Completing all required doses is essential for lasting immunity. We send reminders by text to help you stay on track and can adjust timing to fit your commitments.

You can book online, call the pharmacy or visit us in person. We offer weekday and weekend appointments for your convenience. After booking you receive a confirmation and reminder. Simply arrive at your appointment time with any previous vaccine records. Our private consultation room ensures confidentiality and a calm environment.