About Hepatitis A Vaccine
Hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective vaccine to protect against hepatitis A. Currently, there are four vaccines that are internationally available, and all four are safe and effective with long-lasting protection. The vaccines protect against the virus in more than 95 percent of cases and provide protection from the virus for at least ten years, if not for life.
Vaccination is generally recommended for travellers visiting countries with intermediate to high levels of hepatitis A in the population.
Hepatitis vaccine is often provided as a combination vaccine with hepatitis B.
If you are unsure about your or your child’s level of protection against hepatitis A, see your health care provider for your personal vaccination records and to determine if any booster shots are required.
It is generally advisable to consult your health care provider for hepatitis A vaccination at least 2 to 4 weeks before your departure if possible.
Schedule
Although there is some variation among manufacturers, all available vaccines are given by injection in two doses, usually six to 18 months apart. Vaccines should not be given to children less than one year of age.
Protection against hepatitis A occurs two to four weeks after the initial vaccination. Vaccination should be given at least 2 weeks before departure, if not earlier.
Side Effects
There are no serious adverse side effects linked to this vaccine.
