Hepatitis A Vaccination
Hepatitis A is a viral infection that impacts the human liver. This virus is typically acquired by consuming contaminated food or water and is prevalent in regions where sanitation and access to clean food and water are lacking.
Prices
Per dose: £60
Doses per course: 1
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About the vaccine
When to get vaccinated: You should get vaccinated at least two weeks before travelling.
Course: The course consists of one dose.
Boosters: The vaccine protects you for one year. If you have another booster after 6 to 12 months, you won’t need any further boosters for 25 years thereafter.
How it is given: An injection in the upper arm.
Side effects: Side effects can include a high temperature, tiredness, and soreness at the injection site.
Children: The vaccine is suitable for children over the age of one.
Additional precautions: You need to practise food safety as well as water and hand hygiene while in an area where hepatitis A is endemic.
Risk if you contract hepatitis A: Hepatitis A can cause mild to severe symptoms, including fever and digestive issues. It can cause complications such as liver failure.
About the hepatitis A vaccine
The hepatitis A vaccine entails a single injection, ideally administered at least two weeks before international travel. This single dose offers protection for one year, after which a booster shot becomes necessary. Having this booster extends your immunity for 25 years, eliminating the need for further boosters.
Furthermore, there are combined vaccination options that include hepatitis A and typhoid, as well as hepatitis A and hepatitis B. If you’re uncertain about which vaccine is most suitable for your needs, your pharmacist can provide recommendations for the most appropriate treatment.
Side Effects
Following the injection, it’s possible for the skin around the injection site to become firm, and you may also encounter soreness or swelling. These effects are quite common, as is feeling a bit fatigued after the vaccine or experiencing a temporary elevation in body temperature.
Common side effects include:
– Headache
– Gastrointestinal disturbances like diarrhea
– Nausea
– Vomiting or abdominal discomfort
– Reduced appetite
– Muscle pain (myalgia)
– Joint pain (arthralgia)
– Fever
– Fatigue
– Lymphangitis
– General malaise
What is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is a viral infection, which affects the human liver.
How is Hepatitis A Transmitted?
The hepatitis A virus is typically contracted through the consumption of contaminated food or water, and it is particularly prevalent in countries where sanitation infrastructure is inadequate, and access to clean food and water is limited. This virus has a tendency to spread rapidly, and it is notorious for triggering sudden epidemics.
Which Symptoms Does it Cause?
Following an incubation period of 2 to 4 weeks, individuals typically exhibit symptoms of hepatitis A, including fever, gastrointestinal issues, and jaundice. The intensity of these symptoms can vary widely among individuals, ranging from mild to extremely severe. In rare instances, hepatitis A can lead to complications, such as cholestasis (a disruption in bile excretion) and liver failure. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 1.4 million cases of hepatitis A are reported globally each year.