Hepatitis: What Travellers Need to Know Before You Fly
As World Hepatitis Day (July 28) approaches, it’s a good time to clear up common misconceptions about hepatitis—and to highlight how travellers can protect themselves before heading abroad. At Destinations Travel & Immunization Clinic, we often see individuals unaware of the risks hepatitis poses during international travel, particularly in regions where sanitation and water quality may be compromised.
What Is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections. There are five main types of viral hepatitis—A, B, C, D (delta), and E:
- Hepatitis A and E: Transmitted via contaminated food and water, especially in areas with poor sanitation.
- Hepatitis B, C, and D: Spread through contact with infected blood, bodily fluids, or during childbirth. Hepatitis B and D can also be sexually transmitted.
Common Misconceptions
Many believe hepatitis can be spread through casual contact—like hugging or sharing cutlery—but that’s not true for the blood-borne types (B, C, D). Hepatitis A and E are spread like foodborne illnesses, not through physical contact.
Why Travellers Should Pay Attention
Regions in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, South and Central America, and parts of Eastern Europe have significantly higher rates of hepatitis A and B. Foodborne hepatitis A is common in many of these destinations, and hepatitis B prevalence is high in certain countries.
Unfortunately, symptoms of hepatitis are often silent—especially for chronic hepatitis B and C. When symptoms do appear, they may include jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin), dark urine, fatigue, and flu-like illness.
If left untreated:
- Hepatitis A usually resolves on its own.
- Chronic hepatitis B and C can silently progress to liver cancer, liver failure, or cirrhosis over time.
Prevention Is Key — Especially When Travelling
Here’s what we recommend for anyone planning international travel:
- Get Vaccinated Before You Travel:
- Hepatitis A vaccine: Highly recommended for travel to most parts of the world outside North America, Western Europe, and Japan.
- Hepatitis A & B (Twinrix) vaccine: Offers long-term protection against both. Ideal for frequent travellers, volunteers, and aid workers.
- Schedule your shots 2–4 weeks before travel for best protection.
- Practice Good Hygiene While Abroad:
- Drink only bottled or purified water.
- Avoid raw or undercooked seafood and street food.
- Wash your hands often with soap and clean water.
- Travel with Confidence:
At DTC, we provide personalized travel consultations and vaccines based on your destination, length of stay, and health status. We also offer post-travel care and lab testing for hepatitis and other travel-related conditions.
The Bottom Line
Hepatitis is common—but largely preventable. As a traveller, you can dramatically lower your risk through vaccination and simple precautions. Whether you’re heading to the Amazon, the Andes, or the Mediterranean, don’t take unnecessary chances with your liver health.
Book your travel consult today at Destinations Travel & Immunization Clinic—and protect yourself before you go.
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Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied upon for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
