Who needs the Hepatitis B vaccine for travel?

Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for travelers with potential exposure through blood, body fluids, or sexual contact. This includes healthcare workers, travelers planning long stays in endemic areas, and those engaging in behaviors with exposure risk.

How many doses of Hepatitis B vaccine do I need?

The standard schedule is 3 doses: at 0, 1, and 6 months. An accelerated schedule is available: doses at 0, 1, and 2 months with a booster at 12 months. Our team will recommend the best schedule for your timeline.

What is the difference between Hepatitis B and Twinrix?

Hepatitis B vaccine protects only against Hepatitis B virus. Twinrix is a combined vaccine protecting against both Hepatitis A and B. If you need protection against both viruses, Twinrix is more convenient (fewer injections), but if you only need B, the standalone vaccine is an option.

Is Hepatitis B vaccine covered by OHIP?

Hepatitis B vaccine is covered by OHIP as part of the routine childhood immunization schedule, but not routinely covered for adult travelers. Coverage varies by province for high-risk groups. We can advise you during your appointment.

Hepatitis B Vaccine in Mississauga

Peel Travel Clinic offers Hepatitis B vaccination in adult and pediatric formulations. Protect yourself against Hepatitis B virus with our flexible standard or accelerated schedules. Available at our Mississauga travel clinic.

What Is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that damages the liver. It spreads through blood, body fluids, and sexual contact. The virus can cause acute infection or chronic illness lasting years. Vaccination prevents infection and is the most effective protection available. If you also need protection against Hepatitis A, consider Twinrix (Hepatitis A & B combination vaccine).

Who Needs the Hepatitis B Vaccine?

✓ Travelers with potential exposure to blood or body fluids (healthcare workers, tattoo risk)
✓ Long-term travelers (3+ months) to endemic areas
✓ Sexual partners of people with Hepatitis B
✓ People with chronic liver disease or HIV

Vaccine Details

Dose

Standard: 3 doses at 0, 1, and 6 months. Accelerated: 0, 1, 2 months + 12-month booster.

Protection

Begins after dose 2; full immunity after completing series

Duration

Lifelong immunity after complete series in most adults

Formulations

Adult (19+) and Junior (ages 11–15)

Cost & Coverage

For current pricing, see our full vaccination fees page. Most travel vaccines are not covered by OHIP but may be reimbursable through private insurance or employer benefit plans — we provide official receipts for all vaccinations.

Side Effects

Most people experience no or mild side effects:

Mild (Common)

Soreness at injection site, low-grade fever, fatigue, mild headache — these resolve within days.

Serious (Very Rare)

Severe allergic reactions are extremely rare. Tell our team if you have allergies to vaccine components.

Who Should Not Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine?

• People with severe allergies to vaccine components (including yeast)
• People with moderate to severe acute illness (wait until recovery)
• Pregnant women (consult with doctor — vaccine can be given if benefits outweigh risks)

Our physician will review your medical history to ensure the vaccine is appropriate for you.

40+

Years of Clinical Experience

ISTM

Travel Medicine Society Member

CAME

Transport Canada Designated

YF Centre

Yellow Fever Designated Centre

550 Matheson Blvd W, Unit 107, Mississauga, Ontario L5R 4B8 · (905) 890-2757

Book Your Hepatitis B Vaccination

(905) 890-2757

Disclaimer: Vaccine requirements and health recommendations vary by itinerary, medical history, and current health advisories. The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not replace a personalized travel health consultation. Please book an appointment with our physician for advice specific to your trip.