Hepatitis B injection for adults: what to know

Adults may be offered hepatitis B vaccination because their work involves blood or body fluids, they have a household or sexual contact with hepatitis B, they use shared injecting equipment, or they have a medical condition that increases concern about infection. A clinician may also discuss it before travel or when vaccination history is uncertain. The injection does not contain the hepatitis B virus and cannot give you hepatitis B. Protection develops according to the schedule, so one visit may not complete the plan.

Tell the vaccinator about earlier doses, allergies, pregnancy, immune problems, kidney disease, and medicines that suppress immunity. Keep a written record and attend follow-up appointments. If you miss a visit, ask how to continue. Vaccination is one part of prevention: avoid sharing items that may carry blood and use barrier protection where relevant. If you may already have been exposed, seek advice quickly.

Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, facial or throat swelling, widespread hives, fainting, or sudden severe weakness after the injection. Arrange medical review for persistent fever, worsening swelling, or symptoms such as yellow skin, dark urine, or pronounced fatigue.

Ask whether you need vaccination, which schedule fits your work or health history, whether blood testing is useful, and how to handle a possible exposure or missed appointment.