What should you know about hepatitis A immunisation?

Hepatitis A is an infection affecting the liver. It can spread through contaminated food or water and close contact. Immunisation trains immune defences before infection occurs; it does not treat an infection that is already causing symptoms. Protection timing depends on the vaccine product, your age, health and whether a dose is being given after a possible exposure.

Some people with hepatitis A develop nausea, reduced appetite, tiredness or dark urine, while others have few noticeable symptoms. A symptom does not by itself confirm hepatitis A. A clinician may assess the history and arrange blood tests, including a liver function test, when appropriate.

Ask a doctor or vaccination service whether immunisation fits your travel plans, household exposure, work, liver health or other medical circumstances. Bring your vaccination record if available and mention pregnancy, immune problems, allergies and regular medicines. If you may have been exposed recently, contact a clinician promptly because advice can depend on the timing of exposure.

Until you have advice, wash hands carefully after using the toilet and before preparing food. Do not share food, drinks or personal items with someone who may be infected. For more detail, read about Hepatitis A Vaccination and Hepatitis A.

Arrange prompt medical assessment if you develop yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, persistent vomiting, marked weakness, confusion, or difficulty keeping fluids down. Feeling generally unwell, nausea and loss of appetite can occur with many illnesses, so they need context rather than a diagnosis based on one symptom. Seek urgent help for severe dehydration, unusual drowsiness or sudden deterioration.

Ask whether you need immunisation now, whether a previous dose is recorded, how exposure or travel changes the plan, and which symptoms should trigger testing. You can also ask whether a liver function test or another assessment is suitable.