Why Children and Teenagers May Need the Hepatitis B Vaccine

Hepatitis B is a serious viral infection that affects the liver. It spreads through contact with infected blood and bodily fluids and, in some cases, can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer. While the UK introduced hepatitis B into the routine childhood immunisation schedule in 2017, there are still many children and teenagers who may not be fully protected.

At Cheltenham Travel Clinic, we regularly provide hepatitis B vaccinations for young people who may have missed their early jabs or need protection for upcoming travel. If your child was born before the routine vaccine was introduced or if they weren’t eligible at birth, they may still be at risk. Here’s what parents and guardians need to know.

Missed the Infant Schedule? Your Child Might Still Be Vulnerable

Before 2017, hepatitis B vaccinations were only offered to babies in high-risk households — for example, where a parent was known to be a carrier of the virus. If your child was born before the vaccine was introduced into the standard NHS schedule (after August 2017), and was not part of a high-risk group, it’s likely they didn’t receive the vaccine.

Even children born after this date may not have received all three doses if there were delays or issues during routine infant vaccinations. Without the full course, protection against hepatitis B is incomplete.

If you’re unsure whether your child has received the hepatitis B vaccine, our team at Cheltenham Travel Clinic can check their immunisation history and advise on whether catch-up doses are needed.

School-Age Gaps and Missed Catch-Up Programmes

Children and teenagers may also miss vaccinations during their school years for a variety of reasons. Whether due to illness, administrative oversights, or moving between regions or countries, it’s not uncommon for children to fall behind on their vaccination schedule.

In some cases, hepatitis B vaccinations are recommended for specific school-age groups, such as:

• Teenagers taking part in certain sports or outdoor activities

• Young people with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems

• Pupils attending special education schools, where close physical contact may be more frequent

We offer flexible appointments, including catch-up and accelerated vaccination schedules, to help families get back on track quickly and conveniently.

Hepatitis B and Holiday Travel: What Parents Need to Know

If you’re planning a family holiday abroad, it’s important to consider travel-related health risks – and hepatitis B is a key concern in many parts of the world.

Countries with a higher risk of hepatitis B include:

• Parts of Asia (including India, China, and Southeast Asia)

• Sub-Saharan Africa

• Eastern Europe

• South America

• The Middle East

Children and teens are naturally curious and often more likely to engage in play or sports with local children. Cuts, scrapes, or exposure to contaminated objects (such as shared razors or toothbrushes) may increase their risk, especially in areas with limited access to sterile medical care.

If your child is travelling abroad for:

• A family holiday

• A school exchange programme

• Volunteering or humanitarian work

• Competitive sports

…it’s well worth considering hepatitis B vaccinations before you go.

How the Vaccine Works

Hepatitis B vaccination involves a course of three injections, usually spread over six months. However, accelerated schedules are available for those travelling soon. These provide rapid protection and can be completed over three to four weeks with a follow-up dose after one year.

The vaccine is safe, effective, and well-tolerated by children and teenagers. Once the full course is complete, immunity is usually long-lasting — often lifelong.

Why Vaccinating Your Child Matters

While hepatitis B is not common in the UK, it’s far more prevalent worldwide. Infected individuals may show no symptoms, especially children, making it easy for the virus to spread unknowingly. Early vaccination is the best way to protect your child from the long-term consequences of hepatitis B.

By ensuring your child is protected, you’re not only safeguarding their health but also contributing to wider public health efforts to reduce the global burden of this preventable disease. Visit us for further advice and support surrounding our vaccination services. 

Book with Cheltenham Travel Clinic

At Cheltenham Travel Clinic, we offer hepatitis B vaccinations for all age groups, including children and teenagers. Whether you’re catching up on missed vaccines or preparing for travel, our experienced team can provide clear, friendly advice and a flexible appointment schedule to suit your family’s needs.

Protect your child today. Reach out to book a hepatitis B vaccination appointment at Cheltenham Travel Clinic and travel with confidence.