Are There Any Dangers Or Side Effects Associated With The Vaccine
It’s good to know you cannot become infected by getting the hepatitis A vaccine. But in very rare cases, people can have a severe allergic reaction to the hepatitis A vaccine. This occurs within a few minutes to hours of getting the shot. In extremely rare cases, this reaction can be fatal. It’s important to remember that the risks from the disease are much greater than the risk from the vaccine itself.
Signs of a severe reaction to the hepatitis A vaccination include:
- High fever
Why Should My Child Get The Hepatitis A Shot
- Protects your child from hepatitis A, a potentially serious disease.
- Protects other people from the disease because children under 6 years old with hepatitis A usually dont have symptoms, but they often pass the disease to others without anyone knowing they were infected.
- Keeps your child from missing school or childcare and you from missing work.
Guidance On Reporting Adverse Events Following Immunization
Vaccine providers are asked to report, through local public health officials, any serious or unexpected adverse event temporally related to vaccination. An unexpected AEFI is an event that is not listed in available product information but may be due to the immunization, or a change in the frequency of a known AEFI.
Refer to Reporting Adverse Events Following Immunization in Canada and Vaccine Safety and Pharmacovigilance in Part 2 for additional information about AEFI reporting.
Don’t Miss: What Are The Early Signs Of Hepatitis
Who Should Not Receive Hepatitis A Vaccine
There are a very few situations where the hepatitis A vaccine is not recommended. They include:
- If you have an illness causing a high temperature. In this situation, it is best to postpone vaccination until after you have fully recovered from the illness.
- If you have had an allergic reaction to the vaccine or to any of its components in the past.
- One type of vaccine should not be given to anyone who is known to be allergic to eggs.
- Children under the age of 1 year. However, the risk of hepatitis A in children under the age of 1 year is very low. The hepatitis A vaccine is not licensed for this age group.
The vaccine may be given if you are pregnant or breastfeeding and vaccination against hepatitis A is thought to be necessary.
Concurrent Administration Of Vaccines
HA vaccine may be administered concomitantly with other vaccines or with Ig. Different injection sites and separate needles and syringes must be used for concurrent parenteral injections.
If concurrently providing HA-containing vaccine and Ig, separate anatomic injection sites should be used for each injection.
Passive immunization with human Ig preparations can interfere with the immune response to measles-mumps-rubella , measles-mumps-rubella-varicella and univalent varicella vaccines . These vaccines should be given at least 14 days prior to administration of a human Ig preparation, or delayed until the antibodies in the Ig preparation have degraded. Refer to Blood Products, Human Immunoglobulin and Timing of Immunization in Part 1 for additional information.
Refer to Timing of Vaccine Administration in Part 1 for additional information about concurrent administration of vaccines.
Read Also: How Much Does Hepatitis C Medicine Cost
What Is Hepatitis B Vaccine
Hepatitis B is a serious disease caused by a virus. Hepatitis B causes inflammation of the liver, vomiting, and jaundice . Hepatitis can lead to liver cancer, cirrhosis, or death.
Hepatitis B is spread through blood or bodily fluids, sexual contact, and by sharing items such as a razor, toothbrush, or IV drug needle with an infected person. Hepatitis B can also be passed to a baby during childbirth when the mother is infected.
The hepatitis B pediatric vaccine is used to help prevent this disease in children and teenagers.
The vaccine helps your child’s body develop immunity to hepatitis B, but will not treat an active infection the child already has.
Vaccination with hepatitis B pediatric vaccine is recommended for all children beginning at birth, especially children and adolescents who are at risk of getting hepatitis B. Risk factors include: living with someone infected with hepatitis B virus being born to a mother who is infected with hepatitis B being on dialysis living in a facility for developmentally disabled people traveling to areas where hepatitis B is common being an adolescent who has never received a hepatitis B vaccine during childhood.
Like any vaccine, the hepatitis B vaccine may not provide protection from disease in every person.
Who Should Be Vaccinated Against Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is uncommon in New Zealand but the vaccine is funded for people at risk of severe infection, such as:
- transplant patients
- children with chronic liver disease
- people who live in close contact with someone infected with hepatitis A.
Immunisation is recommended but not funded for the following groups:
- adults with chronic liver disease including chronic hepatitis B or chronic hepatitis C
- men who have sex with men
- some occupational groups
- food handlers during community outbreaks
- military personnel who are likely to be deployed to high-risk areas.
Vaccination can be considered in others at higher risk, such as injecting drug users. Hepatitis A vaccine is not routinely recommended for all children in New Zealand, although it may be considered during community outbreaks.
Recommended Reading: Hepatitis C Viral Load Quest
What Other Drugs Will Affect Hepatitis A Pediatric Vaccine
Before receiving this vaccine, tell the doctor about all other vaccines your child has recently received.
Also tell the doctor if your child has recently received drugs or treatments that can weaken the immune system, including:
- an oral, nasal, inhaled, or injectable steroid medicine
- medications to treat psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders or
- medicines to treat or prevent organ transplant rejection.
If your child is using any of these medications, he or she may not be able to receive the vaccine, or may need to wait until the other treatments are finished.
This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with this vaccine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.
Who Should Have The Vaccine
The risk of infection from hepatitis A is low for most people in the UK, so the vaccine is only available free of charge to people at high risk of hepatitis A disease. This includes:
- people planning to visit or live in parts of the world where hepatitis A is common
- close contacts of someone who has hepatitis A
- people with chronic liver disease
- people with blood clotting disorders
- men who have sex with men
- drug users who inject drugs
- people who may be exposed to hepatitis A through their job
In Europe and the UK there is currently an increase in the number of cases of hepatitis A, mainly among men who have sex with men. Most of the UK cases so far have been in London. Public Health England is encouraging gay and bisexual men to practice good personal hygiene and ask about hepatitis A vaccination at their sexual health clinic appointments.
Vaccines are available for adults and for children aged 1 year or older. However, combined hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines are not licensed for children under the age of 15. For some vaccines only one initial dose is needed, and for others two or three doses are needed. Booster doses may also be needed for long-term protection. For more information, ask for the Patient Information Leaflet for the vaccine you are offered.
Don’t Miss: Oral Medication For Hepatitis C
What Are The Possible Side Effects Of This Vaccine
Get emergency medical help if your child has signs of an allergic reaction:hives difficulty breathing swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Your child should not receive a booster vaccine if he or she had a life-threatening allergic reaction after the first shot.
You may feel faint after receiving this vaccine. Some people have had seizure like reactions after receiving this vaccine. Your doctor may want you to remain under observation for a short time after the injection.
Keep track of any and all side effects your child has after receiving this vaccine. When the child receives a booster dose, you will need to tell the doctor if the previous shot caused any side effects.
Becoming infected with hepatitis B is much more dangerous to your child’s health than receiving this vaccine. However, like any medicine, this vaccine can cause side effects but the risk of serious side effects is extremely low.
- breathing that stops during sleep
- fever, chills, swollen glands.
- fussiness, irritability, crying for an hour or longer
- unusual muscle weakness
- changes in behavior or
- severe skin reaction–fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads and causes blistering and peeling.
Common side effects include:
- low fever or
- runny nose.
Is Hepatitis A Vaccine Safe To Take If I’m Pregnant Or Breastfeeding
There are no adequate or well-controlled trials of hepatitis A vaccine use in pregnant women. Therefore, hepatitis A vaccine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
It is not known if the hepatitis A vaccine is excreted into human milk after administration to the mother. The manufacturer recommends caution when given it to nursing mothers.
Don’t Miss: What Does Hepatitis B Core Antibody Positive Mean
What Are Hepatitis A Vaccines
Two vaccines against Hepatitis A are approved in the United States:
- Havrix: Manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline and approved by the FDA in 1995. It comes in pediatric doses and adult doses .
- Vaqta: Manufactured by Merck & Co. and approved by the FDA in 1996. It comes in pediatric doses and adult doses .
Vaccine Side Effects & Injury Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a vaccine side effect, you should contact a vaccine lawyer with experience in this type of complex litigation.
We have recently partnered with Schmidt & Clark, LLP a Nationally recognized law firm who handles vaccine lawsuits in all 50 states.
The lawyers at the firm offer a Free Confidential Case Evaluation and may be able to obtain financial compensation for you or a loved one by filing a vaccine lawsuit or claim with The National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. Contact Schmidt & Clark today by using the form below or by calling them directly at .
You May Like: Hepatitis C Mode Of Transmission
Is Hepatitis A Curable
Yes, Hepatitis A is curable, and your body will naturally do most of the work. The following can speed the process:
- Hydrating and replenishing Nausea from the virus may make it difficult to keep food and liquids down. Small snacks throughout the day as well as calorie-rich fluids such as juice will help provide the energy your body needs to clear out the virus.
- Rest Those with Hepatitis A feel tired and have less energy. Get plenty of sleep.
- Avoiding alcohol Since the liver also processes alcohol, overloading it with alcohol can cause more damage and can diminish the effects of any medications you take.
Types Of Hepatitis A Vaccine
There are 3 main types of hepatitis A vaccination:
- a vaccine for hepatitis A only
- a combined vaccine for hepatitis A and hepatitis B
- a combined vaccine for hepatitis A and typhoid fever
Talk to your GP about which vaccine is most suitable for you. All 3 types are usually available for free on the NHS.
Plan your vaccinations in advance if you’re travelling abroad. They should ideally be started at least 2 or 3 weeks before you leave, although some can be given up to the day of your departure if necessary.
Extra doses of the vaccine are often recommended after 6 to 12 months if you need long-term protection.
You can find more information about the various hepatitis A vaccines on the NHS Fit for Travel website.
Also Check: Where Can I Go To Get A Hepatitis B Vaccination
Which Drugs Or Supplements Interact With Hepatitis B/hepatitis A Vaccine
: Hepatitis A/B vaccine vaccines should not be used with medications and therapies that suppress the immune system such as adalimumab , belimumab , cyclosporine , azathioprine , irradiation, and high doses of steroids because suppressing the immune system reduces the effectiveness of hepatitis A/B vaccine.
Where Can I Get The Hepatitis A Vaccine
Thinking of getting a Hepatitis A vaccination? to schedule an appointment.
Weve been offering many immunizations recommended by the CDC for certain health concerns and before travel abroad for many years. We accept most major insurance providers so that your immunizations can be convenient and affordable.
Recommended Reading: Can You Ever Get Rid Of Hepatitis B
Are There Any Adults Who Should Not Get The Vaccine
Do not get the hepatitis vaccine if you:
- Have ever had a severe allergic reaction to a hepatitis A vaccine or to any vaccine component hepatitis A vaccines contain alum and some contain 2-phenoxyethanol.
- Are ill, unless it is a mild illness
- Are pregnant, unless you are at greater risk for contracting hepatitis A
Who Should Not Get The Hepatitis B Vaccine
Generally seen as a safe vaccine, there are some circumstances in which doctors advise against receiving the HBV vaccine. You shouldnt have the hepatitis B vaccine if:
- youve had a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose of the hepatitis B vaccine
- you have a history of hypersensitivity to yeast or to any other vaccine components
- youre experiencing a moderate or severe acute illness
If youre currently experiencing an illness, you should postpone receiving the vaccine until your condition has improved.
Read Also: How Is Hepatitis E Transmitted
What Other Drugs Will Affect Hepatitis A Vaccine
Before receiving this vaccine, tell the doctor about all other vaccines you have recently received.
Also tell the doctor if you have recently received drugs or treatments that can weaken the immune system, including:
- an oral, nasal, inhaled, or injectable steroid medicine
- medications to treat psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders or
- medicines to treat or prevent organ transplant rejection.
If you are using any of these medications, you may not be able to receive the vaccine, or may need to wait until the other treatments are finished.
This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with hepatitis A vaccine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.
Is The Hep A Vaccine Safe For Everyone
The Havrix and Vaqta vaccines are considered safe for people over the age of one. The Twinrix is approved for anyone over age 18.
The vaccine doesnt contain a live virus, so its safe if you have a compromised immune system. You can also get the vaccine during pregnancy.
It may not be safe if youve had a serious allergic reaction to a previous hepatitis A vaccine.
If youre feeling sick, ask your doctor if you should wait until you recover to get vaccinated. Talk to your doctor about your medical history and whether the hepatitis A vaccine is right for you.
If you ever had hepatitis A, youve got lifelong protection against the virus. You dont need a vaccine.
Think about getting the vaccine if youre at increased risk of contracting the hepatitis virus.
You may be at-risk if you:
- travel to countries where hepatitis A is common
- travel to areas that have poor sanitation or a lack of safe drinking water
- are a laboratory worker who may come in contact with the virus
- may have direct contact with someone who has hepatitis A
- are a man who has sex with men
- use drugs
100 percent of people who get vaccinated develop protective antibodies within a month of a single dose.
If you miss your chance, you can still get vaccinated within two weeks of having been exposed to the virus.
Children between 6 months and 1 year can get the vaccine if theyre at high risk of hepatitis A. Because the immune response may not be adequate at that age, the child can get the vaccine again after age one.
Read Also: What Happens With Hepatitis C
Hepatitis Vaccine: What You Need To Know
Hepatitis is an inflammatory liver condition. There are five types of viral hepatitis: A, B, C,D, and E. Most cases are caused by a hepatitis virus. The condition can also be a result of excessive alcohol or drug use or a faulty inflammatory immune response that occurs when the immune system mistakes the liver as a threat to the body and begins to attack it.
There are two hepatitis vaccines that can help prevent hepatitis A and B infections. A third vaccine, developed for hepatitis E, is only permitted for use in China. This article discusses the types of hepatitis that can be prevented with a vaccine and what you need to know before getting one.
Before Taking This Medicine
Hepatitis A and B vaccine will not protect you against infection with hepatitis C or E, or other viruses that affect the liver. It will also not protect you from hepatitis A or B if you are already infected with the virus, even if you do not yet show symptoms.
You should not receive this vaccine if you are allergic to yeast or neomycin, or if you have ever had a life-threatening allergic reaction to any vaccine containing hepatitis A or hepatitis B.
Before receiving this vaccine, tell the doctor if you have:
-
an allergy to latex rubber or
-
a weak immune system caused by disease, bone marrow transplant, or by using certain medicines or receiving cancer treatments.
You can still receive a vaccine if you have a minor cold. In the case of a more severe illness with a fever or any type of infection, wait until you get better before receiving this vaccine.
FDA pregnancy category C. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether hepatitis A and B vaccine will harm an unborn baby. However, not vaccinating the mother could be harmful to the baby if the mother becomes infected with a disease that this vaccine could prevent. Your doctor will decide whether you should receive this vaccine, especially if you have a high risk of infection with hepatitis.
If you are pregnant, your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry. This is to track the outcome of the pregnancy and to evaluate any effects of this vaccine on the baby.
You May Like: Hepatitis B Core Antibody Positive Treatment