What should you know about single dose hepatitis A vaccine?

Hepatitis A is a liver infection that can cause feeling generally unwell, nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal discomfort, and dark urine. Some people have few symptoms. A vaccine dose trains the immune system to recognise the virus. Protection is not necessarily immediate, so travel or exposure planning should be discussed early with a healthcare professional.

Bring your vaccination record and tell the clinician about pregnancy, immune problems, serious allergies, current illness, and any recent exposure. Ask when a follow-up dose is due and record the appointment. Mild soreness, tiredness, or a short-lived temperature can occur after vaccination; follow the advice supplied for comfort and monitoring. Do not repeat a dose without checking your record.

Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, widespread hives, collapse, or other signs of a severe allergic reaction after vaccination. Contact a clinician for persistent or worsening illness, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe abdominal pain, or dehydration. If hepatitis A exposure is suspected, seek advice promptly because prevention options may depend on timing.

Ask whether one dose is enough for your circumstances, when further vaccination is due, and whether travel or recent exposure changes the plan. Ask whether a liver function test is needed for symptoms and which reactions should be reported.