Hepatitis A and B Vaccines

Hepatitis A and B Vaccines – Hepatitis A and hepatitis B are two different types of liver infections caused by viruses. While there are other types of hepatitis (C, D, and E), we’ll focus on A and B here.

Both hepatitis A and B viruses can lead to liver inflammation, which can be serious and even life-threatening.

Fortunately, there are vaccines available that can prevent hepatitis A and B. There’s even a combination vaccine that protects against both types.

Who Should Get the Hepatitis A Vaccine?

According to the CDC, it’s recommended that all children between the ages of 12 and 23 months receive the hepatitis A vaccine. Additionally, infants aged 6 to 11 months who are traveling internationally should also get vaccinated.

Other people who are at risk for hepatitis A and should consider getting vaccinated include:

• Children and teens aged 2 to 18 who haven’t been vaccinated before
• Men who have sexual contact with other men
• Individuals who use illegal drugs
• Those with long-term liver disease
• People treated with blood clotting drugs like those with hemophilia
• Individuals working with hepatitis A-infected primates or involved in research on the virus
• Homeless individuals or those living in temporary housing
• People with HIV
• Those wanting to prevent future hepatitis A infections
• Individuals recently exposed to hepatitis A (should get vaccinated within 2 weeks of exposure)
• Travelers to countries where hepatitis A is common. You can check the CDC’s travelers’ health website for guidance on specific countries.
• People adopting or in close contact with a child adopted from a country where hepatitis A is common

It’s important not to get the vaccine if you’re allergic to any of its ingredients or if you’ve had a severe allergic reaction to it before. Be sure to inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies you have. If you’re moderately or severely ill at the time of vaccination, it’s wise to consult your doctor first.

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should also discuss vaccination options with their healthcare provider if they’re at risk of contracting hepatitis A.

Who Should Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine?

The CDC advises that all newborns should receive their first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine shortly after birth.

Additionally, the vaccine is recommended for:

• Individuals aged 59 or younger who haven’t received the vaccine
• Those with a sexual partner diagnosed with hepatitis B
• People who are sexually active but not in a committed monogamous relationship
• Anyone undergoing evaluation or treatment for a sexually transmitted disease (STD)
• Men who have sex with men
• Individuals who share needles for drug injection
• People living with someone who has hepatitis B
• Those whose occupation regularly exposes them to blood or body fluids contaminated with blood
• Individuals with end-stage kidney disease
• People residing or working in facilities for the developmentally disabled
• Travelers to regions with moderate to high rates of hepatitis B
• Individuals with chronic liver disease
• People with HIV or hepatitis C infection
• Individuals who have been incarcerated or recently released from prison
• Individuals with diabetes

If you’ve had a severe allergic reaction to the vaccine before or if you’re allergic to yeast, it’s crucial to avoid getting the vaccine. The vaccine could trigger a severe allergic response because yeast is used in its production.. If you’re moderately or severely ill at the time of vaccination, consult your doctor beforehand.

How and When Do Doctors Administer Vaccines?

For the hepatitis A vaccine:

• You’ll typically receive two doses of the vaccine via shots, spaced 6 months apart to ensure full protection. The virus in the vaccine is inactive.
• Children should ideally get their first dose between 12 and 23 months of age. For children over 2 years old, the first dose can be administered at their next doctor’s appointment.
• If you require the vaccine due to upcoming travel plans, it’s recommended to get it at least 1 month before your departure.

For the hepatitis B vaccine:

• To achieve long-lasting immunity, you’ll need two, three, or four doses depending on the specific type of vaccine used, all administered via shots.
• Children should receive their initial dose shortly after birth and complete the series by the age of 6 months. Typically, the second dose is given at 1 month old, followed by the third dose at 6 months.
• Babies born to mothers with hepatitis B should receive a shot of hep B antibodies in addition to their first hep B vaccine shot immediately after birth. They’ll also need follow-up blood tests to monitor their health.
• Catch-up vaccinations are recommended for children and teenagers who were never vaccinated or didn’t receive all three shots initially.

If you’re an adult considering vaccination, it’s essential to discuss it with your doctor or pharmacist. If you’re contemplating both vaccines, inquire about combination vaccines that protect against both hepatitis A and B.

source

Hepatitis Foundation: “Preventing Hepatitis.”

CDC: “Hepatitis A Vaccine: What You Need to Know.”

CDC Hepatitis B Website: “FAQs for the Public.”

World Health Organization: “Hepatitis A vaccine.”