The hepatitis A vaccine is used to protect against the hepatitis A virus (HAV), which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, and low-grade fever.
This vaccine contains the inactivated virus and stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the hepatitis A virus, helping to fight future infections. It is administered as an intramuscular injection at healthcare clinics.
The hepatitis A vaccine is part of the child immunization schedule and is routinely recommended for children starting at 12 months old. It is also available at private vaccination clinics for children, teenagers, adults, seniors, and pregnant women.
When is it recommended?
The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended to prevent infection by the hepatitis A virus.
This vaccine should be administered to babies starting at 12 months of age in two doses, with a 6-month interval between doses, as part of the standard immunization schedule.
In addition, the vaccine is recommended for unvaccinated children, teenagers, and adults who have not been vaccinated against hepatitis A before, or in outbreak situations or after contact with someone who has hepatitis A. Babies 6–11 months who will be traveling internationally to areas with a high risk of hepatitis A should also receive a single dose, followed by the standard two-dose series at 12–23 months for full protection.
Hepatitis A vaccine doses
The recommended hepatitis A vaccine dosing schedule is as follows:
For adults 18 years and older, the combined hepatitis A and B vaccine (Twinrix®) is also an option. This vaccine is given in three doses: the second dose is administered 1 month after the first and the third dose is administered 6 months after the first. An accelerated schedule (0, 7, and 21–30 days, with a booster at 12 months) may be used for travel or urgent exposure.
Possible side effects
Side effects related to the hepatitis A vaccine are rare. However, local reactions at the injection site may occur, such as pain, redness, swelling, or bruising.
Additionally, the hepatitis A vaccine may cause mild symptoms like respiratory infections, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, conjunctivitis, diaper rash, skin rashes, fever, or irritability.
Who should not get the hepatitis A vaccine?
The hepatitis A vaccine is not recommended for babies under 12 months of age, except in specific travel situations, or for anyone with a history of severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine or after a previous dose of a vaccine with the same components.
During pregnancy, the hepatitis A vaccine is not contraindicated and may be administered if there is a risk of exposure, after consultation with a healthcare provider.