Planning an international trip with children requires careful preparation, and vaccination is one of the most important steps a parent can take. Hepatitis A and hepatitis B are both preventable infections that can pose a real risk to children travelling to certain parts of the world, yet many parents are unsure which vaccines their child needs, when to start, or where to go for advice.
At Brixton Travel Clinic, we regularly support families preparing for travel. If you would like tailored advice before your next trip, book a family appointment or get in touch with our team in Brixton, London.
Why Hepatitis Vaccination Matters For Children
Hepatitis A and hepatitis B are both viral infections affecting the liver, but they differ in how they spread and who is most at risk. Children can be particularly vulnerable when travelling to regions where these infections are more prevalent, as they may have closer contact with local environments, food, and water than adults typically do.
Hepatitis A is most commonly spread through contaminated food and water, making it a significant concern in destinations with variable sanitation standards. Hepatitis B spreads through blood and bodily fluids, and children travelling for extended periods or receiving medical care abroad may face exposure.
Who Should Receive the Hepatitis A And B Vaccine?
Not all children will require both vaccines. Recommendations depend on your child’s age, destination, length of stay, and planned activities.
The following groups are commonly advised to consider vaccination.
- Children travelling to parts of Africa, Asia, or Central and South America
- Children visiting friends or relatives in higher-risk regions
- Children who may require medical or dental treatment abroad
- Those undertaking longer stays or living temporarily overseas
- Children with certain underlying health conditions
- Families travelling to areas with limited access to clean water
Hepatitis A vs Hepatitis B: What Parents Need To Know
| Feature | Hepatitis A | Hepatitis B |
|---|---|---|
| How it spreads | Contaminated food and water | Blood and bodily fluids |
| Minimum age for vaccination | From 1 year of age | Can be given from birth |
| Number of doses | 2 doses (initial and booster) | 3 doses over a set schedule |
| Combined vaccine available | Yes, as a single injection (from age 1) | |
| Duration of protection | Long-term after full course | Long-term after full course |
Vaccination Schedules and Timing
Ideally, vaccination should begin at least four to six weeks before departure to allow time for immunity to develop. For hepatitis B, the standard schedule involves three doses over several months, although an accelerated schedule may be available if travel is approaching sooner.
A combined hepatitis A and B vaccine can simplify the process for families, reducing the number of injections required. Our clinicians at Brixton Travel Clinic will review your child’s existing vaccination records and recommend the most appropriate schedule based on your travel timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
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At what age can children receive the hepatitis A vaccine?
The hepatitis A vaccine is licensed for use in children from one year of age. For infants under one, travel health advice focuses on hygiene measures and careful food and water precautions. Our clinicians can advise on the most appropriate protective measures for very young travellers during a consultation at our Brixton clinic.
Can my child receive both hepatitis A and B vaccines at the same time?
Yes. A combined hepatitis A and B vaccine is available and can be given as a single injection, which is often more practical for children. This is suitable for children from one year of age. Our team will confirm eligibility and recommend the most convenient schedule for your family’s travel plans.
Are there side effects for children?
Side effects are generally mild and short-lived. The most common reactions include soreness or redness at the injection site, a mild temperature, or brief irritability in younger children. Serious side effects are rare. Our clinicians will discuss what to expect following vaccination and provide aftercare guidance.
Is the hepatitis vaccine available free on the NHS?
Hepatitis B vaccination is included in the routine NHS childhood immunisation schedule in the UK. However, hepatitis A vaccine for travel is not routinely available free on the NHS and is typically offered as a private travel vaccine. At Brixton Travel Clinic, we offer family travel consultations, as well as vaccination for healthcare workers, with transparent pricing.
Does my child need a booster after the initial course?
For hepatitis A, a booster dose is recommended six to twelve months after the initial injection and provides long-term protection. For hepatitis B, the standard three-dose course is generally sufficient for long-term immunity, although some individuals may be tested to confirm adequate protection. Our clinicians will advise on follow-up requirements during your consultation.
My child had some vaccinations abroad. Do they still need the full course?
This depends on which vaccines were given, the schedule followed, and how long ago they were administered. Bring any available vaccination records to your appointment and our clinicians at Brixton Travel Clinic will review them and advise on whether any additional doses are needed before travel.
Family Travel Health Advice at Brixton Travel Clinic
Preparing children for international travel involves more than just packing the right things. Ensuring their vaccinations are appropriate for the destination is a key part of keeping the whole family safe. At Brixton Travel Clinic, located at 222 Coldharbour Lane, London SW9, our clinicians take a thorough approach to family travel health, reviewing each child’s individual needs and providing clear, practical advice.
We also offer a range of other travel vaccinations in Brixton for adults and children, including typhoid, meningitis, and yellow fever, all in a comfortable clinical environment.
To arrange a family travel consultation, drop in, contact us on 020 7733 4075 or book now and let us help you travel with confidence.
The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not replace personalised advice from a qualified healthcare professional.