Chelsea Green Pharmacy
When planning travel, one of the most common questions we hear at Chelsea Green Pharmacy is: How long does the vaccine for hepatitis A last? Especially when compared to hepatitis B. Both infections can pose serious health risks while travelling, and understanding how long vaccine protection lasts can help you plan boosters, combined vaccines, and future trips with confidence.
As a trusted private travel clinic in London, we regularly support patients travelling for holidays, work, and long-term stays. This guide explains the key differences between hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccines, how long protection lasts, and how to decide what is right for you.
If you are preparing for travel and unsure about your vaccination status, book now for a travel consultation or to speak to our experienced team in Chelsea.
Understanding Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B
Hepatitis A and hepatitis B are both viral infections that affect the liver, but they are transmitted in different ways.
Hepatitis A is usually spread through contaminated food or water, or close contact in areas with poor sanitation. It is particularly relevant for travellers visiting parts of Asia, Africa, South America, and Eastern Europe.
Hepatitis B is spread through blood and bodily fluids. Risks include medical treatment abroad, sexual contact, tattoos, and certain occupational exposures.
Because the risks differ, vaccination schedules and duration of protection are not identical.
How Long Does the Vaccine for Hepatitis A Last?
For most people, the hepatitis A vaccine provides long-lasting protection.
The standard schedule involves:
• One initial dose before travel
• A booster dose 6 to 12 months later
After completing the full course, protection is expected to last at least 20 years and often for life. Even a single dose provides good short-term protection for travel, but the booster is important for long-term immunity.
This makes hepatitis A vaccination particularly suitable for frequent travellers and those who want peace of mind for future trips.
If you cannot remember whether you completed the full course, contact us, and we can help review your vaccination history.
How Long Does Hepatitis B Vaccine Protection Last?
The hepatitis B vaccine also provides long-term protection, but follows a different schedule.
The standard hepatitis B course includes:
• Three doses over a 6-month period
• An accelerated schedule may be available for urgent travel
After completing the full course, protection is considered long-lasting and often lifelong for healthy individuals. Routine boosters are not usually required unless you are at ongoing high risk or have certain medical conditions.
For travellers, hepatitis B vaccination is often recommended for longer stays, work placements, or destinations where medical care may be needed.
Hepatitis A vs Hepatitis B Vaccine Comparison
| Vaccine | Transmission Risk | Standard Course | How Long Protection Lasts | Booster Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Food and water | 2 doses | 20 years or longer | Yes, after first dose |
| Hepatitis B | Blood and bodily fluids | 3 doses | Long term, often lifelong | Usually no |
What About the Combined Hepatitis A and B Vaccine?
Many travellers choose the combined hepatitis A and B vaccine, often known as Twinrix. This option protects against both infections and follows a combined schedule.
Benefits of the combined vaccine include:
• Fewer injections overall
• Long-term protection against both viruses
• Convenient scheduling for frequent travellers
Protection duration mirrors that of the individual vaccines when the full course is completed.
If you are unsure whether a combined vaccine is suitable, call us to discuss your travel plans.
Which Vaccine Do You Need for Travel?
The choice between hepatitis A, hepatitis B, or a combined vaccine depends on several factors:
• Destination and length of travel
• Type of accommodation and activities
• Work or volunteer roles abroad
• Previous vaccination history
At our private travel clinic in London, we assess these factors carefully to ensure you are fully protected without unnecessary vaccinations.
Why Vaccine Timing Matters
Many travellers leave vaccination planning too late. While hepatitis A protection begins within a few weeks of the first dose, hepatitis B requires more time to complete the full course.
Early planning allows:
• Completion of full courses
• Better long-term protection
• Reduced stress before travel
Contact us as soon as your travel plans are confirmed to avoid last-minute decisions.
Why Choose Chelsea Green Pharmacy for Travel Vaccines?
As a trusted travel clinic and vaccine provider in Chelsea, we offer expert advice, flexible appointments, and a calm, professional environment. We support both first-time travellers and those who travel regularly for work or leisure.
Our service includes:
• Personalised travel risk assessments
• Clear guidance on vaccine duration and boosters
• Access to hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and other travel vaccines
• Ongoing support for future travel
Hepatitis A vs Hepatitis B Protection for Your Trips
Understanding how long the vaccine for hepatitis A lasts compared to hepatitis B helps you make informed decisions about travel health. Both vaccines offer long-term protection when completed correctly, but the risks they address and schedules differ.
At Chelsea Green Pharmacy, we are here to help you travel safely and confidently. Book today to arrange a travel vaccine consultation and ensure your protection is up to date before your next trip.
