Vaccine Hepatitis A (2 doses)

Three reasons the Hepatitis A vaccine plus booster is right for you

• The Hepatitis A vaccine with the second booster shot included can protect you from Hepatitis A for up to 25 years or life.

• Protect yourself from Hepatitis A when you travel to countries where it is common.

• If you practice anal sex, this vaccine will protect you from Hepatitis A infection.

What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a virus that infects the liver. The virus is robust, capable of surviving outside the body for many hours. The Hepatitis A virus is also resistant to heat and cold, so freezing foods or warming them is not enough to kill this virus. It will also survive in water, both fresh and salty sea water for up to 12 months, making it one of the most infectious viruses to encounter. The Hepatitis A virus is carried in the faeces (poo) of infected individuals. You can catch Hepatitis A in the following ways:

• Drinking contaminated tap water

• Swimming in and swallowing contaminated water from lakes or rivers

• Eating food that has been grown in contaminated water

• Eating food that's been handled by a person infected with Hepatitis A and who has not washed their hands properly

• Having close physical contact with an infected person

• Having sex with an infected person or sharing needles to take drugs

What are the symptoms of a Hepatitis A infection?

Hepatitis A infections will often carry only mild or no symptoms in young children and some adults. This infection will often clear up on its own in 3 to 6 months after infection. In more severe cases, Hepatitis A can cause liver problems and further liver function tests can be needed to check your liver is working correctly.

If you do experience symptoms, they are likely to include the following:

• A fever

• Feeling or being sick and vomiting

• Experiencing diarrhoea or constipation

• Have pale yellow or grey faeces

• Your skin and /or the whites of your eyes turn yellow

How does the Hepatitis A vaccine work?

The Hepatitis A vaccine uses inactivated Hepatitis A viruses to stimulate your immune system to make antibodies against the virus. These antibodies are then ready to fight off any infection if you are ever exposed to the real live Hepatitis A virus .

The Hepatitis A vaccine requires a first injection which is then followed 6 to 12 months later by a second booster. This second booster is important as it is this one that will give you up to life-long immunity.

What can I expect at my Hepatitis A vaccine appointment?

At your appointment, your Hepatitis A vaccine will be administered into the top of your arm by a trained medical professional.

After your first vaccine there is nothing more you need to do other than take it easy for a day and make sure you have scheduled your follow up booster injection.

Will I have a bad reaction to the Hepatitis A vaccine?

Most people will not have any significant reactions to the Hepatitis A vaccine. If you do have any reactions, they are likely to be mild and not last for very long. Common reactions can include some slight pain or redness at the site of the injection, feeling tired or generally unwell, have a slight loss of appetite or an upset stomach.

Some individuals may have more significant reactions to the Hepatitis A vaccine. These reactions can include experiencing flu like symptoms, gastric problems including diarrhoea and itchy skin. In very rare cases, an individual can have a more significant reaction that includes swelling of the face and lips, difficulty breathing and a fast heartbeat. In the event you experience any of these reactions be sure to seek medical assistance right away.

How do I schedule my vaccine appointment?

To book your appointment, please click the “Book Your Appointment” button at the top of the page. Select a suitable clinic, date, and time that meets your needs.