Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a liver infection that is spread in the poo of an infected person. Most people who get it get better within a few months.
Hepatitis A is not common in the UK but it is common in other parts of the world such as Asia, Africa, The Middle East and Central and South Africa
Severity
If infected people normally recover within weeks or months, more serious symptoms such as severe liver damage can occur. If not treated Hepatitis A can cause liver failure which leads to death. Older people are at increased risk of complications and yonger individuals can contract the disease and show no signs
Transmission of disease
- Foecal-oral route (ingesting contaminated food and water). This is where individuals who carry the virus in their faeces contaminate the food they are preparing and spread to others.
- Unhygienic injection drug use
- Person to person through close sexual or intimate contact with an infected person
Common Symptoms
- Fever
- Gastro-intestinal upset
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Jaundice
Vaccine Administration
Hepatitis A is given in 2 doses (6 months apart) and will give protection for 25 years if the complete course is given
Typically this vaccine offers a good level of antibody level appearing approx 2-4 weeks after vaccination of first dose.
Preventing Infection
Additional food/water precautions (eg avoiding food prepared in poor hygiene areas)
Consider using bottled water or using a water bottle with a water purification system
Vaccination of Hepatitis A
Side Effects post vaccine
Common side effects like many other vaccines include;
- Redness at site, irritation/swelling at site of the arm
- Raised temperature/fever
- Tiredness and fatigue
Normally these side effects last for a few days or a week and paracetamol would be sufficient to counteract these measures
Take the first step towards a healthier you with personalised support from our expert team.
Travel vaccination at Westerhailes Pharmacy are normally given on the day of appointment, if you need further information about the service call or pop in store.
