Hepatitis B Vaccine Side Effects: What's Normal and What's Not
From Mascot Healthcare Clinic, Akoka (Yaba), Lagos
Hello Friend! Worry about side effects stops some people from getting vaccinated. So let's be clear and honest about what to expect — the hepatitis B vaccine has an excellent safety record, with over a billion doses given worldwide.
Common, Normal Reactions
Most side effects are mild and pass within a day or two:
- Soreness, redness or mild swelling where the injection was given
- A low-grade fever
- Tiredness or a mild headache
These are simply signs that your immune system is responding. A cool compress and rest are usually all you need.
Can the Vaccine Give Me Hepatitis B?
No. The vaccine contains only a small protein from the virus, not the live virus. It is impossible to catch hepatitis B from the vaccine.
When to Seek Help
Serious reactions are very rare, but you should seek medical care if you notice signs of a severe allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, a fast heartbeat or dizziness shortly after the injection. Tell us in advance about any vaccine allergies.
The mild, short-lived discomfort is a small price for lifelong protection against liver disease and liver cancer. Ready to start? See our complete vaccine guide or book your Hepatitis B vaccine in Akoka.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lawal Taiye (MBBS, Ibadan) — Mascot Healthcare Clinic, Akoka, Lagos.