in Illness
Complete Guide to Preventing Hepatitis A and B in Thailand
Hepatitis A and B are among the most common viral infections in Thailand, posing a significant health risk for both expats and travelers. With millions affected by these diseases each year, getting vaccinated is crucial for anyone planning to visit or live in the Land of Smiles.
Besides the Top 13 Diseases and Medical Conditions in Thailand that Expats Should Be Aware Of, this guide will look at Hepatitis A and B in Thailand, how they spread, and ways of prevention such as having health insurance that covers preventative care.
What is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis is the inflammation of liver tissues. It is commonly caused by a virus infection. There are five main strands of the hepatitis virus, commonly referred to as types A, B, C, D, and E. Whilst they all cause liver disease, each strand differs significantly in terms of their modes of transmission and severity:
- Hepatitis A is an acute infection that often resolves on its own without causing long-term liver damage.
- Hepatitis B can be both acute and chronic, with chronic infections potentially leading to serious liver issues such as cirrhosis or liver cancer.
- Hepatitis C often progresses silently and may become chronic, causing significant liver damage over time.
- Hepatitis D only infects individuals who already have hepatitis B, exacerbating the disease.
- Hepatitis E is typically associated with contaminated drinking water and can cause severe complications in pregnant women.
In this article, we will mainly be looking at hepatitis A (Hep A) and hepatitis B (Hep B), in particular their presence in Thailand.
Hepatitis A vs Hepatitis B
The differences between Hep A and Hep B are in the viruses that cause the infection, the methods of transmission, and whether or not it can be cured. As of now, there still is no specific cure for Hep B.
Let’s dive deeper into the differences between hepatitis A and B:
- Hepatitis A (Hep A): This virus is typically spread through consuming contaminated food or water. It is short-term (acute), and most people make a full recovery within weeks or months. The virus does not typically lead to chronic liver disease, but severe cases can occur, especially in older adults.
- Hepatitis B (Hep B): This virus can be spread through blood and bodily fluids. Unlike Hep A, Hep B can become a chronic infection, lasting for years or even a lifetime. Chronic hepatitis B can lead to liver cirrhosis or liver cancer.
The good news is that vaccinations are available for both hepatitis A and B, providing long-lasting protection.
Acute or Chronic Hepatitis: What’s the Difference?
Hep A is not known to cause long term damage to the infected. Typically, the infected will recover within months. There are rare cases where those infected with Hep A die from liver failure. Hep B on the other hand can be both acute and chronic.
Therefore, understanding the difference between acute and chronic hepatitis is crucial:
- Acute Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A infection is usually short-term. Symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and dark urine. Most people recover fully within a few months. In rare cases, acute liver failure can occur, particularly in individuals with pre-existing liver diseases.
- Chronic Hepatitis B: Chronic hepatitis B develops if the virus remains in the body for longer than six months. This is more likely in those infected as infants or young children. Chronic hepatitis B can lead to severe liver damage over time, including cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and liver cancer. Current data shows that up to 10% of adults and 90% of infants infected with hepatitis B can develop chronic infections.
Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing chronic hepatitis B and reducing the risk of serious liver complications.
How Hepatitis is Transmitted
The modes of transmission for hepatitis A and B are different, and understanding them is vital for prevention.
How is Hepatitis A Transmitted?
Hep A is spread via the fecal-oral route, meaning it is transmitted through contaminated food and water. Poor hygiene, inadequate sanitation, and improper food handling increase the risk of infection.
High-risk scenarios include:
- Consuming raw or undercooked shellfish from contaminated waters
- Drinking untreated water or ice made from contaminated water
- Eating food prepared by an infected person who did not wash their hands properly
How is Hepatitis B Transmitted?
Hep B spreads through exposure to infected blood, semen, or other bodily fluids. Common transmission methods include:
- Sharing needles or syringes
- Tattooing or body piercings with non-sterilized equipment
- Unprotected sexual contact
- Transmission from an infected mother to her newborn during childbirth
In Thailand, the risk of hepatitis B transmission is higher due to traditional practices such as shared needles for tattoos or piercings in certain areas. Always choose reputable and hygienic establishments if you plan to get a tattoo or piercing.
Hepatitis in Thailand
Before the 1980s, hepatitis A was the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis in Thailand. Due to improved hygiene, vaccination programs, and better public health practices, the incidence of hepatitis A has dropped significantly, making outbreaks rare today.
According to recent health reports, approximately 3.5 million people in Thailand have chronic hepatitis B. However, the infection rate among those aged 20 or younger has fallen to below 0.5%, thanks to the national hepatitis B vaccination program introduced in 1992.
Current Situation with Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B remains a significant health issue in Thailand, with around 3.5 million people living with chronic Hep B. The government’s hepatitis B vaccination program for newborns, introduced in 1992, has led to a decline in the number of new infections, especially among individuals under the age of 20.
Despite these improvements, visitors and expats are still advised to take precautions, particularly if they engage in high-risk activities or plan to stay in Thailand long-term.
Methods of Prevention
There are several ways to prevent hepatitis infection. As hepatitis is generally transmitted through exposure to contaminated food, water, and blood, paying close attention to personal hygiene, needles, and practicing safe sex give you a better chance of prevention.
Hepatitis A
As mentioned earlier, Hep A is commonly transmitted via fecal-oral route. Paying close attention to your personal hygiene and ensuring that the food and water you consume are clean can already reduce your risk significantly.
WHO Guidelines for Preventing Hepatitis A:
- adequate supplies of safe drinking water
- proper disposal of sewage within communities
- personal hygiene practices such as regular hand washing before meals and after going to the bathroom
Hepatitis B
Hep B is preventable with a vaccine. But to reduce your risk of infection, avoid sharing needles, be mindful of your personal hygiene and wash your hands thoroughly especially after coming into contact with blood and other bodily fluids.
WHO Guidelines for Preventing Hepatitis B:
- Practice safe sex by using condoms and reducing the number of sexual partners
- Avoid sharing needles or any equipment used for injecting drugs, piercing, or tattooing
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after coming into contact with blood, body fluids, or contaminated surfaces
- Get a hepatitis B vaccine if working in a healthcare setting
Vaccination for Hepatitis A and B
Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent hepatitis A and B. The vaccines are safe, effective, and provide long-term protection.
- Hepatitis A vaccine: Administered in two doses, six months apart, providing immunity for at least 20 years.
- Hepatitis B vaccine: Typically given in three doses over six months, offering protection for up to 30 years or more.
The hepatitis B vaccination program in Thailand has led to over 95% coverage among infants, significantly reducing the incidence of chronic hepatitis B in younger generations.
According to the CDC, the hepatitis B vaccine provides immunity for at least 30 years, with 90-95% of individuals developing protective immunity after completing the vaccination series.
Getting Vaccinated in Thailand
Vaccines for both hepatitis A and B are widely available in Thailand. You can get vaccinated at major hospitals and clinics, including:
The cost of hepatitis A and B vaccines varies, but expect to pay around THB 1,500-3,000 per dose. Many health insurance plans cover vaccination, so check with your provider before your trip.
Understood! Here’s a new section focused specifically on additional lifestyle tips to prevent hepatitis A and B, tailored to fit seamlessly into the article and provide more context for travelers in Thailand:
Lifestyle Tips for Preventing Hepatitis A and B
While vaccinations and good hygiene are essential for preventing hepatitis A and B, there are additional lifestyle measures you can take to further reduce your risk of infection, especially while in Thailand such as being cautious with what you eat and drink, and avoiding risky medical procedures.
Other prevention tips include:
- Be Cautious with Food and Water: Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water. Stick to bottled water, and avoid ice cubes in drinks. When it comes to food, choose well-cooked dishes over raw or undercooked options, particularly seafood, which can be a source of the virus.
- Avoid Risky Medical Procedures: In Thailand, it’s common for tourists to seek out cosmetic procedures or medical treatments. If you opt for any medical treatment, including dental work or cosmetic enhancements, make sure to choose a reputable facility. Poorly sanitized equipment can expose you to hepatitis B through contaminated needles.
- Exercise Safe Practices with Tattoos and Piercings: Thailand is famous for its tattoo parlors, but be cautious. Ensure that the studio uses new, sterile needles and follows strict hygiene standards to prevent the transmission of hepatitis B.
- Practice Safe Sex: Hepatitis B can be transmitted through bodily fluids, making unprotected sexual contact a significant risk factor. Using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners can drastically reduce your chances of contracting the virus.
Monitor Your Health: If you start experiencing symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), fatigue, nausea, or dark urine during your stay, seek medical advice immediately. Early detection of hepatitis A or B can prevent severe complications and allow for timely treatment.
Insurance Options
If you are relocating or planning to visit the Land of Smiles in the future, it would be smart to secure health and travel insurance before the trip. If hepatitis is one of your primary concerns, you should check your plan’s coverage details to see if Hep B vaccinations are covered.
At Pacific Prime Thailand, we offer tailored health and travel insurance plans that cover a wide range of needs, including hepatitis vaccinations and treatments. Before you travel, check your policy’s coverage to ensure you are protected.
In addition to hepatitis, Thailand’s tropical climate can lead to other health concerns like dengue fever, and typhoid, making comprehensive insurance even more vital. A good plan will not only cover vaccinations but also provide access to top-tier medical facilities and specialists.
To help you find the best plan, we work with top insurers in Thailand, such as Allianz, AXA, AIA, and Generali, ensuring you receive competitive options tailored to your needs. Check out our Guide to Staying Healthy in Thailand.
For more thorough information, visit our Top Insurance Providers in Thailand page to explore the options we offer.
Conclusion
Thailand is a wonderful place to visit as a tourist and relocate to as an expat. The country offers incredible healthcare services, especially in the cities such as Bangkok. Although there may be risks of Hep A and HBV, there are ways you can prevent them both with lifestyle choices and vaccinations.
Before you go to Thailand be sure to take proper precautions. Make sure to take our recommended vaccinations to reduce your risks. With the right insurance, you can ensure that you have medical coverage in the case of illnesses or emergencies.
Find the right plan for you today at Pacific Prime Thailand! Our experts are skilled at simplifying insurance, and they can help you navigate through the countless plans our partners offer to present to you the best plans that fit your needs and budget.
Contact us today for a free quote.
When visiting Thailand you may also want to learn more about the common illnesses such as Chikungunya and Zika.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hepatitis common in Thailand?
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by infectious viruses. There are five strands of hepatitis virus, namely A, B, C, D, and E. Approximately 3.5 million people suffer from hepatitis B in Thailand.
What vaccinations should I get before going to Thailand?
It is recommended that you get the following vaccinations before you visit or relocate to Thailand: hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, and typhoid. Consult your doctor to see which vaccinations are right for you.
How long does hepatitis B shots last for?
According to the CDC, there are studies that have found that immunologic memory remains intact for at least 30 years among healthy individuals who have taken the hepatitis B vaccination at less than 6 months of age.
Can I still get hepatitis B after getting vaccinated?
No. Once you have completed the vaccination series, you cannot contract hepatitis B through any means of transmission. Note that the vaccination only works if you have not previously contracted the infection.
Where can I get vaccinated in Thailand?
You can receive vaccinations at major hospitals like Bumrungrad International Hospital and Bangkok Hospital. It is advisable to book an appointment in advance.
After obtaining his Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences, International Relations from Mahidol University International College, Veerabhatr has forged his career as a content writer in the travel, lifestyle, and real estate industries, writing in both English and Thai. He now continues to hone his skills as a writer at Pacific Prime, looking to engage and educate the audience by simplifying insurance.
Writer by day, and a DJ by night, Veerabhatr is a staunch music lover, and listens to all spectrums of genres available. He also loves to drink beer (moderately), eat all types of food, go to the beach, and learn about different cultures across the globe. He is also a die-hard fan of football and motorsports.
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