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    Hepatitis A – adults

    Protects against liver inflammation caused by the hepatitis A virus.

    Protects against

    Liver inflammation (hepatitis A)

    Validity

    1 year after 1st dose, >30 years after 2nd dose

    Schedule

    2 doses 6-12 months apart

    Side effects

    Usually mild

    About Hepatitis A

    Hepatitis A is a liver inflammation caused by the hepatitis A virus. The disease mainly occurs in areas with poor hygiene and sanitary facilities. After infection, the liver recovers completely and you are immune for life.

    How is it transmitted?

    The virus spreads through the fecal-oral route: by eating or drinking contaminated food or water, or through direct contact with an infected person. Raw shellfish, unwashed vegetables and contaminated drinking water are common sources.

    Symptoms

    Fatigue and general malaise
    Reduced appetite
    Nausea and vomiting
    Abdominal pain (especially upper right)
    Dark urine
    Light-colored stool
    Jaundice (yellow skin and eyes)
    Itching

    Possible complications

    • Prolonged fatigue (weeks to months)
    • Rarely: acute liver failure (especially in elderly)
    • Rarely: recurring hepatitis

    Risk areas

    AfricaAsiaCentral and South AmericaEastern EuropeMiddle East

    About the vaccination

    Vaccine type

    Inactivated vaccine

    How does it work?

    The vaccine contains killed hepatitis A viruses. Your immune system learns to recognize the virus and produces antibodies for protection.

    ⏱️ When to vaccinate?

    2-4 weeks before departure. Also useful shortly before departure: the first dose already provides quick protection.

    Effectiveness

    Very high: almost 100% protection after one dose, lifelong after two doses.

    Who should get this vaccination?

    • Travelers to risk areas
    • People with chronic liver disease
    • Men who have sex with men
    • People who work with hepatitis A virus

    Not suitable for

    • People with severe allergic reaction to previous dose or components
    • People with severe acute illness (postpone vaccination)

    Possible side effects

    Pain or redness at the injection site, headache, fatigue. Usually disappears within a few days.

    Book an appointment?

    Contact us for personal advice about your vaccinations.

    Personal care

    We respect your preferences. You can choose a male or female practitioner.

    Short waiting time

    Usually available within a week. Call for urgent appointments.

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    Destinations where this vaccination is relevant

    Check the full advice for your destination.

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    Need more vaccinations?

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