I am planning a vacation in the spring. What should I know about preventing Hepatitis?

To stay healthy when you travel, plan ahead. Before travelling to another country, see a doctor or travel clinic at least 6 weeks before you leave. You may need immunizations for protection against disease. Learn about the places you plan to visit before you go. You should know if the drinking water is safe and if there are diseases common to the area.

Ask your doctor if there are immunizations, medications or precautions you should take before you go. For example, hepatitis is common in developing countries and you need to be immunized before you travel.

Hepatitis A is caused by a virus and affects the liver. It usually goes away on its own without long-term liver problems. This virus is found in the stool of infected people and is spread through food or drink that has come into contact with infected stool when someone handling food or beverages has not washed their hands well after going to the bathroom. Hepatitis A is one of the most common illnesses found in travelers. When travelling, you can protect yourself by avoiding raw fruits/vegetables, raw or undercooked meats, and untreated tap water. Many developing countries do not have safe tap water. Choose drinks that are made with boiled water like tea/coffee, or canned/bottled beverages. Do not use ice unless it is made with safe water. Avoid foods sold by street vendors.

Hepatitis B is another type of the virus infecting the liver that can result in long term liver problems. Most people do not know they are infected with no symptoms or feel like they have the flu. The virus is spread through contact with the blood and body fluids from infected people during unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, getting a tattoo or piercing with unclean tools, sharing personal items like toothbrushes and razors. Travelers commonly get infected by having sex with an infected person. Using condoms can prevent sexually transmitted diseases.

A vaccine before travelling is the best way to prevent getting sick with hepatitis A and/or B. There are separate vaccines available for Hepatitis A and B. Twinrix is a combination vaccine that protects against both hepatitis A and B. The vaccines are effective and safe with mild side-effects for 24 hours. The type of vaccine you receive determines how many shots you will need. Hepatitis A vaccine is believed to prevent hepatitis A for at least 20 years. Hepatitis B vaccine lasts for life. Twinrix is effective for 20 years.

For more information about hepatitis and travelling, or for available programs and services, contact Health Link Alberta where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call 1-866-408-LINK (5465) or 780-408-LINK (Edmonton area) or 403-943-LINK (Calgary area).

You may also visit albertahealthservices.ca for related health information and programs and services in your area.