Do I need both the hepatitis A and B vaccines?
They protect against two different viruses, so one does not cover the other. If you need protection against both — for travel, work or lifestyle reasons — you can have them separately, or as a combined hepatitis A and B vaccine (Twinrix) in a single course.
What is the combined hepatitis A and B vaccine?
Twinrix is a combined vaccine that protects against both hepatitis A and hepatitis B in one course, usually three doses over six months. It means fewer injections and one schedule to remember. An accelerated schedule is available if you're travelling soon.
How many doses of the hepatitis B vaccine do I need?
Adults who have not been vaccinated typically need three doses of the hepatitis B vaccine — the second a month after the first, and the third about six months after the first. Infants receive their first dose at birth under the childhood schedule.
How many doses of the hepatitis A vaccine do I need?
Two doses. The second is given about 6 to 12 months after the first, which completes the course and gives long-lasting protection.
How long does the hepatitis A and B vaccine last?
Protection is long-lasting. The hepatitis A vaccine generally protects for at least 20 years and possibly for life. The hepatitis B vaccine typically protects for 20 to 30 years, with many people protected for life. Booster doses are rarely needed after a completed course.
Is the hepatitis B vaccine free or subsidised in Singapore?
Hepatitis B vaccination is nationally recommended. It is given free to newborns under the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule, and subsidies apply for eligible children and adults at CHAS GP clinics, for Pioneer and Merdeka Generation cardholders, and for Healthier SG enrollees. Most adults will pay something, so contact us to check what you qualify for.
Can I use MediSave for the hepatitis B vaccine?
Yes. MediSave can be used for nationally recommended vaccinations under the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS), which includes the hepatitis B vaccine, for eligible Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents.
Is the hepatitis A vaccine subsidised?
The hepatitis A vaccine is generally recommended for travel and for higher-risk groups rather than the whole population, so it is usually self-funded. Our team will confirm the cost when you book.
Do I need a blood test before the hepatitis B vaccine?
Sometimes. A blood test can show whether you are already immune, or whether you are a hepatitis B carrier — useful if you were vaccinated long ago, or if there is hepatitis B in your family. Our doctors will advise whether testing makes sense for you.
Can I still get hepatitis B after being vaccinated?
It's uncommon. Over 90% of adults under 40 develop protective antibodies after the full course, though this falls to around 75% by age 60. Infection is more likely if the course was never completed or the immune response was poor — a blood test can confirm your protection.
Which is more important, the hepatitis A or hepatitis B vaccine?
Both matter, but hepatitis B carries the greater long-term risk because it can become a chronic infection leading to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Hepatitis A is unpleasant but usually resolves on its own and never becomes chronic.
Is the hepatitis vaccine safe in pregnancy?
Hepatitis A and B vaccines are inactivated (non-live) vaccines. Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended in pregnancy when a woman is at risk of infection. Always tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding, so the right decision can be made for you.
What are the side effects of the hepatitis A and B vaccine?
Most people have only mild effects: soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site, and sometimes headache, tiredness, mild fever, loss of appetite or nausea. These usually settle within a day or two. Severe allergic reactions are rare.
Do I need the hepatitis vaccine for travel?
Hepatitis A is commonly recommended for travel to many parts of Asia, Africa and South America, where it spreads through contaminated food and water. Hepatitis B is advised for longer stays, medical work, or activities with a risk of blood exposure. We'll advise based on your trip.
Where is my vaccination recorded?
Your hepatitis vaccinations are recorded in the National Immunisation Registry and appear in your HealthHub record, so your immunisation history is always available to you and your doctors.
