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 24 months of age). People who should get the vaccine include travelers to developing countries with high rates of hepatitis A and users of illegal drugs.

What Is Hepatitis A?

What Is 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. It is approved for use in children (age 1 year and older), teens, and adults.

For Havrix^®, the second dose is given 6 to 12 months after the first dose. For Vaqta^®, the second dose is given 6 to 18 months after the first.

Who Should Get the Vaccine?

The following people should get the hepatitis A vaccine as a routine vaccination:

Almost all children between 12 and 24 months of age
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)