Hepatitis A is an infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV) virus. People with hepatitis A can have no symptoms or they can feel very sick with fever, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice .
The HepA vaccine is recommended for children 12–23 months old, followed by a second dose at least 6 months later.
HepA can be given as early as 6 months of age if a baby will travel to a place where hepatitis A is common. The baby will still need routine vaccination after their first birthday. It's also recommended for older kids (2–18 years old) who haven't already gotten it.
The HepA vaccine not only protects the kids who get it. It also can help prevent outbreaks. An outbreak is when a disease happens in greater numbers than expected in a particular area.
Childcare centers are a common site of hepatitis A outbreaks. Some kids can be infected and not have symptoms. But they can still spread the virus to others. Having many young kids vaccinated against hepatitis A can stop it from spreading in a community.
Side effects usually are mild, and can include a mild fever and soreness or redness at the injection site. Allergic reactions to the vaccine are rare.
The HepA vaccine contains a killed (inactivated) virus, so it cannot cause hepatitis.
The HepA vaccine is not recommended if your child:
Your child may have fever, soreness, and some swelling and redness at the shot site. For pain and fever, check with your doctor to see if you can give either acetaminophenoribuprofen, and to find out the right dose.
Call your doctor if:
Reviewed by: Elana Pearl Ben-Joseph, MD
Date Reviewed: Feb 9, 2022
