The hepatitis A vaccine protect your child against the hepatitis A virus. This virus can cause a serious infection that can lead to liver damage. The vaccine is made  from smaller pieces of the whole hepatitis A virus. After getting the vaccine , the body learns to attack the hepatitis A virus if the person is exposed to it. You should note that this vaccine does not protect against other types of hepatitis.
 

Who should get the hepatitis A vaccine and when ?

Children

This vaccine consists of 2 shots at least 6 months apart. The first dose is given to children after the age of 1.  The second dose is given 6 to 18 months after the first dose.

Children ages 2 to 18 should get the 2 doses of the vaccine if they live in areas with high incidence of hepatitis A.

If you have had hepatitis A infection in the past, you do not need the vaccine. Once you have recovered from the infection, you are immune for life.

Adults
 
If you are 19 years old and older you should get the 2 doses of the vaccine if you fall into the following category :

 
• you use recreational, injectable drugs
• work or travel in areas where hepatitis A is common such as Africa, Asia (except Japan), the Mediterranean, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Central and South America, Mexico and parts of the Caribbean
• you have chronic liver disease
• you are male and have sex with other men
• work with the hepatitis A virus in a laboratory or with research animals that are infected with the virus.
• adopt children from a country where many people have hepatitis

 
You can get hepatitis A as a vaccine itself or as a combined vaccine that protects against both hepatitis A and B.  Ask your healthcare provider which one is right for you.