What should you know about hepatitis A live vaccine?

Live vaccines contain a weakened form of a germ rather than the full-strength infection. They are intended to prompt immune protection, but the exact hepatitis A product available depends on local practice and the person's age and health. A live product is not interchangeable with every hepatitis A vaccine, and it is not used to treat hepatitis A already in progress.

Tell the clinician about immune-system conditions, immune-suppressing medicines, pregnancy, severe allergies and recent vaccines. Mild soreness, tiredness or fever can occur after vaccination. Nausea, loss of appetite, dark urine or feeling generally unwell should be discussed if they are significant or persistent. See [Hepatitis A](/conditions/hepatitis-a/).

Bring the vaccination record and a complete medicine list. Ask whether a non-live option is more suitable, whether another dose is planned and how vaccine timing fits with travel or exposure. Do not stop prescribed immune medicines without medical advice. The clinician can compare the options within the wider [Hepatitis A Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/hepatitis-a-vaccination/) plan.

Get emergency help for breathing difficulty, swelling of the mouth or throat, collapse or severe weakness after vaccination. Contact a clinician promptly for persistent high fever, worsening illness, repeated vomiting or a new rash. If hepatitis A symptoms are suspected, arrange assessment rather than treating them as an expected vaccine response.

Ask whether the product is live, why it is recommended, how immune conditions or medicines affect suitability, and what symptoms should prompt a call.