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Hepatitis A Vaccine for Children

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.

AMBULATORY CARE:

The hepatitis A vaccine

is an injection that helps protect your child from the virus that causes hepatitis A. Hepatitis A is a serious liver disease. The virus is usually spread by person-to-person contact or through food and liquid contaminated with the virus.

When your child should get the hepatitis A vaccine:

The vaccine is given in 2 doses at least 6 months apart. The vaccine can be given with other vaccines.

Recommended Hepatitis A Immunization Schedule

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

Seek care immediately if:

Call your child's doctor if:

The following increase the risk for hepatitis A:

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

Reasons your child should not get the hepatitis A vaccine or should wait to get it:

Your child should not get a second dose if the first caused a severe allergic reaction. Ask about ingredients in the vaccine that can trigger a reaction if your child has a severe allergy. Wait to get the vaccine if your child is sick or has a fever on the appointment day.

Risks of the hepatitis A vaccine:

The area where your child got the shot may be sore or tender. This is usually mild and goes away in a few hours. Your child may also have a headache or loss of appetite, or feel tired for up to 2 days. Your child may have an allergic reaction to the vaccine. This can be life-threatening.

Apply a warm compress

to the area where your child got the vaccine to relieve swelling and pain.

Follow up with your child's doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.