Avaxim hepatitis A vaccine

It cannot cause hepatitis A from the vaccine virus. It is given by injection, and the appropriate product and schedule depend on factors such as age, previous doses, health circumstances and when protection is needed.

Hepatitis A spreads mainly through contaminated food or water and close contact with an infected person. Vaccination prepares the immune system to respond to the virus, but it does not treat an infection that is already established and does not protect against other forms of hepatitis.

A clinician can determine whether Avaxim is suitable and whether an earlier hepatitis A dose counts toward your course. Food, water and hand-hygiene precautions still matter, particularly during travel or an outbreak.

Before the injection, report any serious reaction to a previous hepatitis A vaccine or its ingredients, current fever, bleeding disorder, immune-system problem, pregnancy, breastfeeding and medicines that affect immunity. Bring any vaccination record so the clinician can avoid unnecessary repeat doses.

Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site can occur, along with headache, tiredness, muscle discomfort, nausea or feeling unwell. Rest, fluids and moving the arm gently may help. Follow the vaccinator's advice about symptom relief and arrange the next dose at the recommended time if one is due.

Call emergency services for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, collapse or severe weakness soon after vaccination. These can be features of a serious allergic reaction and need immediate treatment.

Contact a clinician if a reaction is severe, worsening or not settling as expected. Vaccination does not explain every later illness: dark urine, yellow eyes or skin, persistent vomiting, marked abdominal pain or pronounced loss of appetite warrant medical assessment for possible liver illness.

Ask whether the vaccine matches your age and medical history, when protection is expected to develop, and whether your travel timing changes the plan. Confirm how earlier doses will be counted, which reactions to report and when any follow-up vaccination should occur.