Hepatitis A Vaccine
Not all GP clinics in Melbourne stock travel vaccinations, however Yarra Medical stocks a full range of travel vaccines including Hepatitis A.
The hepatitis A vaccine is the best defence against the hepatitis A disease and is recommended for people in high-risk groups, such as:
- Travellers to high risk areas
- People whose work puts them at increased risk of infection
- People with developmental disabilities
- People with liver disease
- Men who have sex with men
- Workers in the sex industry
Vaccination requires two doses over a 12 month period, or three doses if combined with the hepatitis B vaccine. Until December 31 2018, Victoria men who have sex with men and people who have used intravenous drugs in the past 12 months can receive the two-dose vaccine for free.
Side effects of the hepatitis A vaccine
Side effects from the hepatitis A vaccine, such as low-grade fever or pain at the site of injection, are usually mild and short-lived, and do not require specific treatment.
Pregnancy and the hepatitis A vaccine
It is not recommended that pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding receive the vaccine, although vaccination may be recommended if you can’t avoid exposure to high-risk situations. Come in and see us to find out more.
What is hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is a viral liver disease, which is spread via contact with food, surfaces or objects that have been contaminated by an infected person. Contaminated shellfish has also been known to cause infection, and outbreaks have occurred among illicit drug users, and among men who have sex with men. It is also common in developing countries where hygiene standards are poor.
Hepatitis A symptoms
If infected, symptoms can occur between 15 and 50 days after contracting the virus and may last for several weeks, but full recovery usually occurs. Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, fever, jaundice (yellow skin and eyes), and dark urine. Having a hepatitis A infection provides life-long immunity against hepatitis A.
For more information please view the Better Health website.
For information on other vaccines, see also: