Hepatitis A
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to Fact SheetsWhat is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is an infection of the liver caused by a virus. Some people show
no symptoms at all while others may experience weakness, nausea, vomiting,
loss of appetite, abdominal pain and jaundice (yellowish skin and eyes). For
about 10% of those who have hepatitis A, symptoms are severe and can last
for months. There is no treatment for hepatitis A, the body must fight the
disease on it's own.
How is Hepatitis A spread?
Hepatitis A is found in feces of infected people. It can be spread from
person to person by fecal oral contact. It is also spread through
contaminated water, ice, unpasteurized milk, fruit, vegetables, shellfish
harvested from sewage polluted water, and any other food that was handled by
an infected person.
Hepatitis A Vaccine:
Hepatitis A vaccine provides protection from Hepatitis A for 20 years,
possibly longer. Vaccination should be considered for people travelling to
areas where Hepatitis A is common. Travellers are advised to get the vaccine
whether they are staying in resorts, middle and upper class hotels, or
venturing off the usual tourist routes.
Hepatitis A vaccine may be recommended for sexually active gay males, I.V.
drug users, and household and sexual contacts of infected people.
Long term immunity from hepatitis A is achieved after 2 doses of the
vaccine.
- 1st dose now
- 2nd dose anytime between 6 and 12 months after the
1st dose
One month after receiving the 1st dose of the hepatitis A
vaccine, 94%-100% of adults and children will be protected from hepatitis A.
This protection will last about 1 year. The 2nd dose, or Booster dose, will
ensure long term immunity.
Who should NOT get the Hepatitis A vaccine?
- Those who have an allergy to aluminium hydroxide,
neomycin, or phenoxyethanol
- Anyone who has had an allergic reaction to this
vaccine in the past
- Anyone with a fever over 38.5 C (101 F)
- Anyone who is pregnant or breast feeding should speak
to their health care provider prior to receiving the vaccine
Are there any side effects of the vaccine?
Although serious side effects are rare, the most common side effects of the
vaccine are:
- Redness, soreness, and swelling at the injection site
- Other reactions may include fever, headache, nausea,
dizziness, fatigue, joint pain, and rashes and should subside in 1 to 2
days
- Allergic reactions like hives, wheezing, swelling of
the face and mouth are extremely rare, however if this symptoms occur,
seek medical attention immediately and let the Health Unit know about it
It is routine for you to sit and wait in the reception
area for 15 minutes after receiving this vaccine. Please advise the
receptionist immediately if you start to feel ill. |
Leeds,
Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit -
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