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In the United States, hepatitis B is not that common. It's much more common in other parts of the world.

For example:

• In Western Europe, North America, New Zealand and Australia, less then 2 in every 100 people have hepatitis B
• In parts of Eastern Europe, Africa, Asia, South America and the Middle East, more than 8 in 100 people have hepatitis B.¹

You can get a vaccine to protect you against hepatitis B. So, if you're planning to travel abroad, you should find out from your local travel clinic or primary care doctor whether you are going to an area where hepatitis B is common. Your primary care doctor will let you know if you should have a vaccination.²

As well as being vaccinated, there are other things you can do to make it less likely you'll get hepatitis B when you are traveling. For more information, see Reducing your risk of catching hepatitis B.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.