Hepatitis A Vaccine

The hepatitis A vaccine can protect against the virus for at least 20 years. It consists of two injections, given several months apart. Children can get the vaccine after 1 year of age (it is recommended between 12 and 23 months of age). People who should get the hepatitis A vaccine include travelers to developing countries with high rates of hepatitis A and users of illegal drugs.

 

An Introduction to the Hepatitis A Vaccine

A vaccine is a drug that you take when you are healthy that keeps you from getting sick. Vaccines teach your body to attack certain viruses, like the hepatitis A virus.
 
The hepatitis A vaccine is given through a shot. Children can get the vaccine after they are 1 year old. It is recommended that children receive the vaccine between 12 and 23 months of age. The second shot should follow 6 to 12 months later. Adults get two shots over a period of 6 to 12 months.
 

Candidates for the Hepatitis A Vaccine

The following people should get the hepatitis A vaccine as a routine vaccination:
 
 
  • Children living in areas with high incidence rates of hepatitis A (above the national average) -- check with your health department to see if this applies to your area
  • Travelers to developing countries with high rates of hepatitis A, including Mexico
  • Men who have sex with men
  • Users of illegal drugs
  • People who work with hepatitis A virus in research settings
  • People who work with infected non-human primates
  • Recipients of clotting factor concentrates
  • People with chronic liver disease (because of the risk of fulminant hepatitis A).
     
(Hepatitis A Vaccine Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;