Vaccination against hepatitis A isn't
routinely offered in developed countries because the risk of infection is low for most
people.
It's only recommended for people at an
increased risk, including:
1.
Close
contacts of someone with hepatitis A
2.
People
planning to travel to or live in parts of the world where hepatitis A is
widespread, particularly if levels of sanitation and food hygiene are expected
to be poor
3.
People
with any type of long-term (chronic) liver disease
4.
Men who
have sex with other men
5.
People who
inject illegal drugs
6.
People who
may be exposed to hepatitis A through their job – this includes sewage workers,
staff of institutions where levels of personal hygiene may be poor (such as a
homeless shelter) and people working with monkeys, apes and gorillas.
Types of hepatitis A vaccine
There are three main types of hepatitis A
vaccination:
1.
a vaccine
for hepatitis A only
2.
a combined
vaccine for hepatitis A and hepatitis B
3.
a combined
vaccine for hepatitis A and typhoid fever
If you've travelling abroad, try to plan
your vaccinations in advance. They should ideally be started at least two or
three weeks before you leave, although some can be given up to the day of your
departure if necessary.
Extra doses of the vaccine are often
recommended after 6-12 months if you need long-term protection.
Side effects of the hepatitis A vaccine
Some people develop temporary soreness,
redness and hardening of the skin at the injection site after having the
hepatitis A vaccine.
A small, painless lump may also form, but
this usually disappears quickly and isn't a cause for concern.
Less common side effects include:
·
a slightly
raised temperature
·
feeling
unwell
·
tiredness
·
headache
·
feeling
sick
·
loss of
appetite
