Hepatitis A Vaccination: Protecting Against a Contagious Liver Disease

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the liver. Transmitted primarily through the faecal-oral route, it spreads via contaminated food, water, or direct contact with an infected person. Though typically self-limiting, severe cases can cause prolonged illness or, rarely, liver failure. Vaccination is an effective preventive measure for high-risk groups and travellers to endemic regions.

Why Consider Vaccination?

Hepatitis A poses a significant risk in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene. Outbreaks often occur in settings like childcare centers or among individuals who travel to countries where the disease is endemic. The virus survives well in the environment, making prevention crucial.

Vaccination is important because:

  • It significantly reduces the risk of infection.
  • It prevents the spread of the virus to close contacts.
  • Immunity after vaccination is long-lasting, likely spanning decades.

Who Needs Hepatitis A Vaccines?

Vaccination is recommended for:

  1. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children
    • Living in the Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia.
  2. People with Medical Risk Factors
    • Chronic liver disease patients.
    • Individuals with developmental disabilities.
  3. Occupational Groups
    • Early childhood educators and carers.
    • Carers of people with developmental disabilities.
    • Plumbers and sewage workers.
    • Those living or working in rural Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
  4. Travellers
    • People aged ≥1 year travelling to endemic regions.
  5. High-Risk Lifestyles
    • People who engage in anal intercourse.
    • People who inject drugs.
    • Inmates of correctional facilities.

Available Vaccines and Schedules

Hepatitis A vaccines are available as monovalent or combination (Hepatitis A and B). They are administered via intramuscular injection.

  1. Monovalent Vaccines:
    • Avaxim: Two doses, 6–36 months apart.
    • Havrix: Two doses, 6–36 months apart.
    • Vaqta: Two doses, 6–18 months apart.
  2. Combination Vaccines:

Booster Doses

Hepatitis A vaccination generally does not require boosters, as vaccine-induced immunity persists for many years.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Contraindications:
    • Anaphylaxis after a previous dose or any vaccine component.
    • Combination vaccines are contraindicated for those with yeast allergies.
  • Precautions:
    • Pregnant and breastfeeding women can receive the vaccine if necessary.
    • Alternative products may be required for individuals with latex allergies.

Adverse Events

Hepatitis A vaccines are generally safe. Common side effects include mild pain at the injection site and, less commonly, headache or fever. The vaccine does not affect liver function or HIV viral loads in immunocompromised individuals.

Travel Preparation and Vaccination Timing

  • Ensure vaccination at least two weeks before travel.
  • Combine vaccination with good hygiene practices, such as washing hands and consuming safe food and water.

Public Health Impact

In Australia, vaccination programs have significantly reduced hepatitis A cases, especially among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Routine immunization has curtailed outbreaks in communities and high-risk groups.

Consult Your GP for Protection

Vaccination against hepatitis A is a reliable way to protect yourself and your community from this preventable disease. Speak with your GP or travel health clinic to ensure you’re covered.

Stay informed and stay protected!

Hepatitis A and other travel vaccines are available at Mentone General Practice in the Bayside area of Melbourne.