Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver caused by the highly contagious hepatitis A virus. Even in very small amounts, the virus can spread when ingested – usually through person-to-person contact or by eating or drinking contaminated food and beverages. People who get hepatitis A may feel sick for a few weeks or several months but usually recover completely and do not have lasting liver damage. In very rare cases, hepatitis A can cause liver failure and even death.
Why does my child need protection against hepatitis A?
Prior to vaccines, children age 2 years through 18 years had the highest rates of hepatitis A (15-20 cases per 100,000 children). Younger children generally have no symptoms with hepatitis A, or the disease goes unrecognized. However, in older children and adults, infection is usually symptomatic. This is particularly concerning because outbreaks can occur in daycare centers, where asymptomatic young children can unknowingly spread it to family members, especially their parents. A person with hepatitis A can feel sick for as long as 6 months, with symptoms of diarrhea, fatigue, fever, joint pain, nausea and jaundice (yellow skin or eyes).
What vaccine protects against hepatitis A?
The HepA vaccine protects against hepatitis A virus. Starting at 1 year of age, children are recommended to receive two doses of HepA vaccine, spaced at least 6 months apart.
Is it safe?
Yes, the vaccine is very safe. Millions of doses of hepatitis A vaccine have been given since the first hepatitis A vaccine was licensed in 1995. There are no serious side effects from hepatitis A vaccines. The most common side effect is soreness in the area where the shot was given.
Is it effective?
The vaccine is highly effective – protecting 94 to 100% of children against hepatitis A.