Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus. A person can contract hepatitis A by ingesting contaminated drinks or food or by touching their mouth using hands that have encountered infected faeces. Continue reading to find out more about the Hepatitis A vaccine in South Manchester.
The Hepatitis A vaccine is not commonly given in the UK because the majority of people have a low risk of infection. Only high-risk people are advised to get this vaccine domestically.
In most developed countries, the vaccination of infants is normal practice. You should also get the vaccination or re-vaccinated if your risk of acquiring the disease is higher. This is vitally important for those at risk of Hepatitis A complications.
Generally, it is recommended that the following people get vaccinated against Hepatitis A:
– Any person who is close to a Hepatitis A patient.
– Those who live or travel in hepatitis A-prone parts of the world, particularly those where sanitary conditions and food handling practices are likely to be subpar.
– Those who have chronic liver disease.
– Men who have sex with other men.
– Those who inject themselves with drugs.
– Those whose line of work puts them at risk of contracting Hepatitis A, (e.g. Police Officers or health workers)
Not sure if you need the vaccination? Give us a call on 0161 498 9743.
Hepatitis A vaccines typically come in three different varieties, including:
– The hepatitis A vaccine only
– Combination of hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccines
– Typhoid and hepatitis A vaccinations given together
Get in touch with your pharmacist if you want to know which vaccine is best for you. If your health puts you at high risk from Hepatitis A, you’re probably eligible for a vaccine through the NHS. Otherwise, the vaccines are available privately.
Schedule your immunisations in advance if you are going on a trip abroad. They should ideally be started at least 2 or 3 weeks in advance. Although you can have some the day prior to your departure, if necessary.
You often require additional vaccination doses if you need long-term protection after 6 to 12 months.
Find out more about the various hepatitis A vaccines by visiting the NHS Fit for Travel page.
Some people report temporary skin hardness, pain, and redness at the injection site after receiving the Hepatitis A Vaccine. A tiny, painless lump could potentially form, but it generally goes away quickly and shouldn’t be a cause for concern.
Uncommon side effects of the Hepatitis A Vaccine include:
– Feeling sick
– Tiredness
– Loss of appetite
– A slightly raised temperature
– Feeling unwell
A headache
The precise duration of protection from the hepatitis A vaccine is still unknown. However, people who receive a 2-dose vaccination and children who get 3 doses of the vaccine should be immune for 20 to 25 years. Current data indicates that antibodies remain active for a minimum of 25 years if the second dosage is administered 6 to 12 months following the first.
Book your appointment with SM Travel Clinic today to get your Hepatitis A Vaccine in South Manchester.
This blog post was written on behalf of the South Manchester Travel Clinic by Pharmacy Mentor.
