The holiday season is one of the busiest times for travel whether it’s a road trip interstate, visiting family overseas, or taking a long-awaited summer escape. But while you’re planning your itinerary, packing bags, and organising gifts, it’s just as important to think about your health, especially when it comes to viral hepatitis risks.
Make sure to research the place you’re travelling to and check whether any immunisations are recommended or required before entering that region. Some destinations have higher rates of hepatitis A, different sanitation systems, or a higher risk of food and water contamination compared to Canberra and Australia more broadly. Being informed early helps you protect yourself and your family before you step on the plane.
Vaccination is your best holiday insurance
If you’re travelling overseas or even to remote areas within Australia, it’s important to know what vaccines are recommended to safeguard you against viruses and diseases you may not normally encounter at home.
Hepatitis A is uncommon in Australia, but it remains highly contagious and is still a risk in many parts of the world. Unlike hepatitis B or C, hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food and water, making travel one of the most common ways Australians are exposed. Even popular holiday destinations can carry risk, particularly places where sanitation or water treatment systems differ from what we’re used to in the ACT.
The good news is hepatitis A is preventable but only if you get vaccinated early enough for your body to build immunity.
Where to get the vaccine
If you’re unsure whether you’ve had this vaccine before, speak with your GP. Many adults can’t recall their vaccination history, and it’s always safer to check early. Services like Hepatitis ACT & local pharmacies are great to stop by for guidance before you go.
- You can receive the hepatitis A vaccine at your local GP or pharmacy.
When to get the vaccine
For the best protection, you should see your doctor or pharmacist at least 4 to 6 weeks before travelling. This allows time for:
- Medical advice on what you may need for your specific destination
- Sufficient time for vaccines to take effect
- Space to complete multiple doses if required
Key timing recommendations
- Get the hepatitis A vaccine 2 to 4 weeks before travel (minimum).
- Ideally, give yourself 4 to 6 weeks to allow the vaccine to become fully effective.
- Some travel vaccines require multiple doses over several weeks, so starting early is essential.
Your GP or pharmacist can provide the vaccine and will advise you on whether you need additional protection based on your health, age, and destination.
Why early vaccination matters
- Immunity takes time: Your body needs time to develop protective antibodies after vaccination (this does not happen instantly).
- Higher-risk destinations: Many developing countries still have higher rates of hepatitis A and travellers are often unaware until they’re home and become unwell.
- Long-term protection: While a single dose provides strong protection for travel, a second dose (given 6 to 12 months later) ensures long-term immunity that can last decades.
While you are travelling
Food & water safety
Hepatitis A spreads easily through contaminated food or water, but a few simple habits significantly reduce your risk:
- Choose freshly cooked, steaming-hot foods
- Avoid raw or undercooked seafood, including shellfish
- Drink sealed bottled or boiled water if the local supply is unsafe
- Avoid ice unless it’s made from treated water
- Wash or sanitise hands frequently, especially before eating
- Avoid using the tap water to brush your teeth with, opt for bottled/ boiled water instead
These precautions apply even in destinations that feel “tourist-friendly” – remember, hepatitis A can appear anywhere, regardless of how the area looks.
Managing viral hepatitis or liver health while away
For people living with viral hepatitis or managing liver-health conditions, holiday travel can disrupt usual routines. A little preparation goes a long way:
- See your doctor in advance to refill scripts
- Bring enough medication for your whole trip (plus extra for delays)
- Follow your usual dosing schedule, especially when crossing time zones
- Keep up with testing or monitoring if you’re due soon
- Know where medical support is available at your destination
Your liver health doesn’t take time off and neither should your care plan.
How we can help before you go
Hepatitis ACT is here to support Canberrans in preparing for safe, healthy travel. We can help with:
- Information on hepatitis A risks and prevention
- Guidance on where to access vaccinations locally
- Support for people living with hepatitis B or C to stay safe while travelling
- Education on food safety, harm reduction, and general liver-health protection
Whether you’re leaving next week or planning ahead for the new year, a quick chat with us can help you feel confident, informed, and protected.
Travel safe, Stay well
Holidays should be about connection, rest, and making memories not health worries. With a bit of planning, early vaccination, and some simple hygiene habits, you can enjoy your break while keeping yourself and your loved ones safe from hepatitis risks. If you need support or have questions before you travel, we are here to help you take care of your health wherever the holidays take you.
Local Pharmacies & GP’s near me: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services
Hepatitis ACT: Where to find us