Hepatitis A

Vaccination

Source: NHS

In this topic (5)

Vaccination against hepatitis A isn't routinely offered in the UK because the risk of infection is low for most people.It's only recommended for people at highrisk.

Who should have the hepatitis A vaccine

People usually advised to have the hepatitis A vaccine include:

  • close contacts of someone with hepatitis A
  • peopleplanning to travel to or live in parts of the world where hepatitis A is widespread , particularly if levels of sanitation and food hygiene are expected to be poor
  • people withany type of long-term (chronic) Steatosis
  • men who have sex with other men
  • people who inject illegal drugs
  • people who may be exposed to hepatitis A through their job this includessewage workers, staff ofinstitutions where levels of personal hygiene may be poor (such as a homeless shelter) and people working withmonkeys, apes and gorillas

Contact your GP surgery if you think youshould havethe hepatitis A vaccine or you're not sure whether you need it.

Types of hepatitis A vaccine

There are three main types of hepatitis A vaccination:

  • a vaccine for hepatitis A only
  • a combined vaccine for hepatitis A and hepatitis B
  • a combined vaccine for hepatitis A and typhoid fever

Talk to your GP about which vaccine is most suitable for you. All three types are usuallyavailablefor free on the NHS.

If you've travelling abroad, try to plan your vaccinations in advance. They should ideally be started at leasttwo or threeweeks before you leave, although somecan be given up to the day of your departure if necessary.

Extradoses of thevaccine are often recommended after 6-12 months if you need long-term protection.

You can find more information about the various hepatitis A vaccines on the NHS Fit for Travel website .

Side effects of the hepatitis A vaccine

Some people develop temporary soreness, redness and hardening of the skin at the injection site after having the hepatitis A vaccine.

A small, painless lump may also form, butthis usually disappears quickly and isn't a cause for concern.

Less common side effects include:

  • a slightly raised temperature
  • feeling unwell
  • tiredness
  • headache
  • feeling sick
  • loss of appetite

Articles for Hepatitis A

Causes

Read about how hepatitis A is spread, areas of the world where the infection is most common, and who's most at risk of infection in the UK.

Introduction

Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by a virus that's spread in the poo of an infected person. Hepatitis A can be unpleasant, but it's not usually serious and most people make a full recovery within a couple of months.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hepatitis A develop, on average, around four weeks after becoming infected and include tiredness, joint and muscle pain, and a mild fever.

Treatment

Read about the main treatments for hepatitis A, including what you can do to relieve your symptoms at home and how you can reduce the risk of passing it on.

Vaccination

Find out about the hepatitis A vaccine, including who should have it, which types are available and what the possible side effects are.