We are continuing awareness of the importance of immunizations following with raising understanding of Hepatitis A. Most people don’t think about Hepatitis when vaccinations come to mind, but a deeper dive will educate all about it. Read on to learn more about Hepatitis A, why vaccination against it is crucial, and answer questions about the safety and who should get the vaccine.
Healthy Tip Tuesday is brought to you in partnership with Trinity Health Systems.
What is it?
A viral infection is transmitted by contaminated food and water. International travelers are at increased risk, but outbreaks have also been traced to restaurants, daycare centers, and schools. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all children receive two doses of a vaccine to prevent Hepatitis A.
Who should get it?
- The CDC recommends all children between 12 and 23 months of age. The vaccine is given as a series of two shots; the second shot is given six to 18 months.
- If the vaccine series is missed children are still eligible to receive the vaccine.
- Adults who are at high risk of getting the infection
- Traveling to a country where Hep A is highly transmitted
- Spending time with a child who has been adopted from a country where Hep A is common.
Is the vaccine safe?
- About five to 10 of every 100 children will have pain, warmth, or swelling where the shot was given and about five of every 100 will have a headache.
Do the benefits outweigh the risks?
- Every year, thousands of people in the United States are infected, and some die. The vaccine does not cause any severe reactions. Therefore, the benefits of the hepatitis A vaccine clearly outweigh its risks.
- Once immunized a person no longer has the risk of getting Hep A in the future.
