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Travel health.
Clearly explained.

Hepatitis A vaccine

Hepatitis A vaccination protects against a viral liver infection commonly acquired through contaminated food or water.

What is it?

Hepatitis A can cause fever, nausea, abdominal symptoms, dark urine and jaundice. Adults are more likely than young children to develop noticeable or prolonged illness.

Where it may be relevant

  • Travellers to countries where hepatitis A is common
  • People visiting friends and relatives or staying where sanitation may be limited
  • Travellers with occupational, behavioural or medical risk factors

Dose schedules.

The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.

Primary and booster

Adults and children

Dose 1Day 0
Dose 26–12 months

A first dose provides initial protection; a later booster supports long-term protection.

Who may be eligible

  • Adults and children from the licensed age who need travel or risk-based protection
  • People needing catch-up after a previous documented first dose

Who may not be eligible

  • Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
  • People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually

Potential side effects

  • Pain, redness or swelling where the injection is given
  • Headache, tiredness, muscle aches or a mild fever
  • Feeling faint around the time of vaccination

Important risks and precautions

  • A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
  • Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
  • The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment

Clinical references

Further information.

Information is general and does not replace a personal assessment, prescribing decision or the latest destination-specific advice.

Frequently asked questions

What does the hepatitis A vaccine protect against?

It protects against hepatitis A, a viral infection affecting the liver.

Who should consider the hepatitis A vaccine?

It is commonly considered for travel where hepatitis A is present, particularly when food and water exposure is likely.

How many doses of the hepatitis A vaccine are needed?

Most travellers receive one dose before travel and a booster six to twelve months later.

Can I have the hepatitis A vaccine close to departure?

Book an assessment even when departure is close. Whether vaccination can be completed or still provide useful protection depends on the product, previous doses and time available.

Can the hepatitis A vaccine be given with other vaccines?

Many vaccines can be given at the same appointment, but spacing rules can apply to some live vaccines. The clinician will check the products, your history and the proposed schedule.