Hepatitis B is one type of hepatitis that causes an inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis is a potentially severe virus that can cause liver failure, cancer and cirrhosis. According to the CDC, there are approximately 21,000 new cases of hepatitis B infection a year, which are majorly diagnosed in unvaccinated adults. So, who needs a Hep-B vaccine and when is the right time to get it? Continue reading to learn more about hepatitis, and plan a visit to the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Hillsdale to stay up-to-date with recommended vaccines for your entire family.
Who Needs a Hepatitis B Vaccine?
The Hepatitis B vaccine is available and recommended for all age groups. This includes infants, children and adolescents younger than 19 years of age, all adults aged 19 through 59 years, and all adults aged 60 years or older with known risk factors for hepatitis B infection. Essentially, everyone can and should be vaccinated against hepatitis – even if you have not been regularly vaccinated in your lifetime.
There are a few groups of people who may be at an even higher risk for contracting hepatitis B, or experiencing hepatitis-related complications that could lead to hospitalization. If you’re a public-safety worker, diabetic under aged 60, or living with a chronic liver condition, you should receive vaccination. Additionally, if you are planning to travel to a country where hepatitis B virus transmission is common, ensure you’ve been vaccinated prior to leaving. AFC Urgent Care Hillsdale provides travel vaccinations to all patients in the area.
Acute Hepatitis B Symptoms
There are warning signs that can accompany hep-B but oftentimes, people living with hepatitis B show no symptoms, and can still spread the virus to others. The virus can spread from person to person through blood and other bodily fluids, including sex. It’s important for all people to get vaccinated as early as possible to prevent spreading hepatitis to others.
Symptoms of acute hepatitis B can include:
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Dark urine
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms and suspect you may have hepatitis B, you can visit the team at AFC Hillsdale. Our medical providers can examine your symptoms and help plan proper treatment.
Can I Get Vaccines at Urgent Care?
Yes, families can visit AFC Hillsdale for all recommended vaccines- including travel and pediatric vaccines. By visiting an urgent care center, you can acquire quick and easy vaccinations that protect you and your loved ones against contagious and life-threatening illnesses like hepatitis B.
The walk-in clinic in Hillsdale, NJ is a convenient and affordable resource for family care. If you are concerned that you might have been exposed to the hepatitis B virus, visit AFC Hillsdale as soon as possible. Infection with the hepatitis B virus can be prevented if you get the vaccine quickly – ideally in 24 hours. At AFC Hillsdale, we can diagnose the condition and recommend effective treatment. If you have any additional questions about vaccines, or other urgent care services we provide, call us directly at (201) 523-9222.
