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. 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.