Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). It spreads mainly through contaminated food, water, or close contact with infected people. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent the disease, especially in regions where the virus is common.
What type of vaccine is the hepatitis A vaccine?
It is an inactivated vaccine, meaning it contains a killed virus that cannot cause the disease. It is given intramuscularly and provides long-lasting immunity after completing the recommended schedule.
What is the purpose of this vaccine?
The purpose of the hepatitis A vaccine is to prevent infection by the hepatitis A virus. It does not just lessen the severity of symptoms; it prevents people from getting infected in the first place. Studies show that after completing the two-dose schedule, its protective efficacy is over 95%, ensuring long-term immunity.
Who should get the hepatitis A vaccine?
- Children starting at 12 months of age.
- Adults without prior vaccination traveling to high-risk areas.
- People with chronic liver disease.
- Food handlers.
- Close contacts of infected individuals.
Vaccination schedule
The schedule consists of two doses:
- First dose: starting at 12 months of age.
- Second dose: 6 to 18 months after the first dose.
For more details, you can check the official vaccination schedule from Mexico’s Ministry of Health.
Is it included in other combination vaccines?
Unlike the pentavalent or hexavalent vaccines, which protect against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, and Haemophilus influenzae type B, the hepatitis A vaccine is not included in those combinations. However, there is a combined hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccine available in certain immunization schedules.
Who should not get this vaccine?
- Anyone with a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or vaccine component.
- People with a high fever at the time of vaccination (postponement is advised).
- Not indicated for infants under 12 months.
Expected side effects
The hepatitis A vaccine is very safe. Mild and temporary effects may include:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
- Fatigue or mild discomfort.
- Low-grade fever in some cases.
Serious adverse reactions are extremely rare.
Cities where we provide the hepatitis A vaccine
At Doctor At Home México, we offer at-home vaccination services in:
- Puerto Vallarta
- Cabo San Lucas
- San José del Cabo
- Mazatlán
- Culiacán
- Guadalajara
- Chapala
- Morelia
- San Luis Potosí
- Cuernavaca
- Mexico City
- State of Mexico
- Puebla
- Mérida
- Cozumel
- Playa del Carmen
- Cancún
- Monterrey
Conclusion
The hepatitis A vaccine is an essential preventive measure for children and adults. Getting vaccinated on time ensures effective protection against a disease that can severely affect liver health.
👉 Book your vaccination through our web menu.