Hepatitis A Vaccine — 2 Doses
The Hepatitis A vaccine helps protect against hepatitis A virus infection.
Around one month after receiving the first dose, approximately 95% of individuals develop protective antibodies against hepatitis A infection.
The Hepatitis A vaccine is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects include pain, redness, swelling or warmth at the injection site.
The full vaccination course consists of 2 doses. The second dose is usually given 6 to 18 months after the first dose.
The Hepatitis A vaccine is suitable for individuals aged 1 year or above.
The following groups may consider Hepatitis A vaccination:
- Travellers visiting areas where hepatitis A is more common
- Individuals with clotting factor disorders who require plasma-derived clotting factor replacement therapy
- Individuals with chronic liver disease
- Men who have sex with men
Travellers visiting areas where hepatitis A is more common are advised to receive the first dose at least 2 weeks before departure, to allow time for protective antibodies to develop.
The full vaccination course consists of 2 doses, usually given 6 to 18 months apart.
Who may not be suitable for the Hepatitis A vaccine?
The Hepatitis A vaccine may not be suitable for individuals who:
- Have had an allergic reaction to any ingredient of the Hepatitis A vaccine
- Have previously had a severe allergic reaction after receiving this vaccine
- Are seriously unwell or feeling unwell on the day of vaccination
If you are seriously unwell or have an acute illness on the day of vaccination, you should postpone vaccination until you have recovered.
Although there is no evidence suggesting that the Hepatitis A vaccine is harmful to pregnant women or the foetus, its safety during pregnancy has not been fully established. Pregnant women should consult a doctor before vaccination.
