Hepatitis A Vaccine

What does the hepatitis A vaccine do?
The hepatitis A vaccine can prevent hepatitis A.

How many doses of the hepatitis A vaccine are recommended?
For the most beneficial vaccination against hepatitis A, more than 1 dose is recommended. The number of doses is dependent on the type of hepatitis A vaccine administered.

What kind of hepatitis A vaccines are available?
Two types of hepatitis A vaccines are available. 

The first type is a single-dose vaccine that is given as two shots, 6 months apart. Both shots are needed for long-term protection against hepatitis A. 

The second type is a combination vaccine that protects against both hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. This vaccine can be given to anyone 18 and older. It is given as 3 shots over 6 months. All 3 shots are needed for long-term protection for both hepatitis A and hepatitis B.

How long is the hepatitis A vaccine effective?
If properly administered with the correct timing and doses, the hepatitis A vaccine results in long-term protection.

Who can get the hepatitis A vaccine?
Anyone who requests the hepatitis A vaccine can get vaccinated. 

Is the hepatitis A vaccine safe?
Yes, the hepatitis A vaccine is safe. However, as with any medicine, there is a slight risk of serious complications.

Who should not get the hepatitis A vaccine?
Individuals should not get the hepatitis A vaccine if they have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to the hepatitis A vaccine or are allergic to any part of the hepatitis A vaccine. Individuals should not get the hepatitis A vaccine if they are allergic to Neomycin or Yeast (contraindication for Twinrix). It is recommended that Individuals who are moderately or severely ill should wait until they recover before getting vaccinated. The hepatitis A vaccine is not licensed for use in infants under 1 year of age.

What are the symptoms of a severe allergic reaction to the hepatitis A vaccine?

• Hives

• Swelling of the face and throat

• Difficulty breathing

• Fast heartbeat

• Dizziness

• Weakness

If such reactions occur, call 9-1-1 and get the person to the nearest hospital, as this can be life threatening.

Does the hepatitis A vaccine have side effects?

• Swelling, tenderness, redness, warmth, or a hard lump where the shot was injected

• Low fever

• General ill feeling

• Nausea

• Loss of appetite

• Headache

Where are hepatitis A vaccines administered?

Speak with your health-care provider or contact your local public health department, where free or low-cost vaccines for adults may be offered. Use the NACCHO Directory of Local Health Departments to search for local health departments in your area.

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