Introduction

Hepatitis A vaccine (Havrix, Vaqta) is used to prevent hepatitis A, a type of liver disease that is caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). Hepatitis A is usually spread when a person ingests fecal matter from contact with food, drinks, or objects which have been contaminated by feces or stool of an HAV-infected person. Hepatitis A infection can be mild with no symptoms or a serious illness that can rarely cause liver failure and death. Getting vaccinated against the hepatitis A virus is the best way to prevent these problems.

The hepatitis A vaccine does not cause hepatitis because it does not contain the live virus. It contains inactivated hepatitis A virus. The vaccine works by stimulating the body to produce antibodies, which are proteins that will fight and kill the virus and prevent hepatitis A infection.

The hepatitis A vaccine is used for the prevention of disease caused by hepatitis A virus in persons 12 months of age and older. The primary dose should be given at least 2 weeks prior to expected exposure to HAV.

What are the side effects of hepatitis A vaccine?

Mild side effects include:

• Soreness where the shot was given
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Tiredness

Other reported side effects include:

• Allergic reactions
• Belly pain
• Taste changes
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Sensitivity to light
• Seizures
• Dizziness
• Difficulty sleeping

What is the dosage for hepatitis A vaccine?

Hepatitis A vaccine is administered by injection into the muscle of the upper arm. Two separate shots of 0.5 ml for children and 1 ml for adults are required and should be given 6 to 12 months apart (Havrix) or 6 to 18 months apart (Vaqta). Hepatitis A vaccine may be given at the same time as other vaccines.

• Children should be vaccinated at 12 through 23 months of age.
• Alternatively, anyone over the age of 12 months who wishes to be protected from the hepatitis A virus can be vaccinated at any time.
• Travelers are advised to get vaccinated at least 2 weeks before travelling.

Who need not get vaccinated

• Have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to the hepatitis A vaccine or any ingredient in the vaccine
• Are sick

Adverse reactions: Inactivated vaccine: mild local reaction of short duration, mild systemic reaction Live vaccine: few reported

Importance of vaccine

Because of the vaccine, rates of hepatitis A in the United States are the lowest they’ve been in 40 years. But hepatitis A is still common in other countries, so it’s possible for people to get the disease when they travel.

Most people who get hepatitis A only get a mild form of the disease. But in some cases, hepatitis A can lead to serious liver problems — and even death.

Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent hepatitis A.

Conclusion

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Media Contact:
John Kimberly
Editorial Manager
Journal of Vaccines & Vaccination
Email: jvv@scholarlypub.com