Hepatitis A - Vaccine
Alternate Names : Immunization - Hepatitis A, Vaccine - Hepatitis A
DefinitionHepatitis is inflammation of the liver. The hepatitis A vaccine protects you against one type of hepatitis, hepatitis A. The vaccine stimulates your body to produce antibodies against the hepatitis A virus. Note that this vaccine will not protect you from other types of hepatitis. See also immunizations - general overview.
Description
The vaccine, called Havrix or VAQTA, is made from inactivated whole virus of hepatitis A. It is given by an injection in your arm. You should be protected against the disease within two weeks after receiving the first injection.
To ensure complete immunization against the disease, two vaccinations are required. After receiving the first vaccination, children and adults should have a booster vaccination in six to 12 months.
There is also a vaccine for adults called Twinrix that contains both Hepatitis A and B in combination. It reduces the number of needle sticks to achieve immunity to both viruses. It is given in 3 doses.
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