Skip to content Skip to sidebar Skip to footer
Book Now
Book Now
Close
Hepatitis A
£55 per dose / course

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver and is typically spread through the consumption of contaminated food or water. The vaccine helps to prevent Hepatitis A infection and its associated complications.

Vaccination Price per dose Price per course
 Hepatitis A (adult)  £55  £55
 Hepatitis A (paediatric)  £55  £55
Book a Hepatitis A Vaccination

Prevention

Preventing Hepatitis A involves a combination of vaccination and adopting good hygiene practices to reduce the risk of infection. Some key preventive measures include:

Hepatitis A Vaccine: The most effective way to prevent Hepatitis A is through vaccination. The Hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and highly effective vaccine. It provides long-lasting immunity against the virus and is recommended for travellers to regions with high rates of Hepatitis A transmission.

Good Hygiene Practices:

  • Frequent Handwashing: Wash hands with soap and water thoroughly and frequently, especially after using the restroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food.
  • Safe Food and Water: Ensure that drinking water comes from a safe and reliable source. Avoid consuming raw or undercooked seafood and fruits or vegetables washed with contaminated water.
  • Personal Hygiene: Avoid close contact with individuals who have Hepatitis A, especially if you are not vaccinated. Do not share personal items like toothbrushes or razors.
  • Proper Sanitation: Practice good sanitation and waste management to prevent contamination of water sources with faecal matter.
  • Travel Precautions: If you are traveling to regions with a higher risk of Hepatitis A transmission, ensure you are up-to-date with your vaccinations. In addition, take extra precautions with food and water safety to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus.

    Post-Exposure Prophylaxis: If you have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with Hepatitis A or have been exposed to the virus, your healthcare provider may recommend a post-exposure prophylaxis with the Hepatitis A vaccine or immune globulin to prevent infection.

    • Countries at risk

    Hepatitis A is prevalent in many parts of the world, and the risk of infection can vary by region and country. Generally, areas with poor sanitation, inadequate access to clean drinking water, and limited vaccination coverage are at higher risk for Hepatitis A transmission. Here are some regions and countries where Hepatitis A is more commonly found or where travellers may be at a higher risk of exposure:

  • Sub-Saharan Africa: Many countries in sub-Saharan Africa have higher rates of Hepatitis A due to challenges in sanitation and clean water access.
  • South Asia: Countries in South Asia, such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, have significant levels of Hepatitis A.
  • Southeast Asia: Hepatitis A is prevalent in countries like Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and the Philippines.
  • Central and South America: Many countries in Central and South America have intermediate to high rates of Hepatitis A transmission.
  • Middle East: Some Middle Eastern countries may have moderate to high rates of Hepatitis A.
  • Eastern Europe: Hepatitis A is relatively common in certain Eastern European countries.
  • Parts of Oceania: Some Pacific Island nations have a higher incidence of Hepatitis A.

    Travellers to regions with a risk of Hepatitis A should consider getting vaccinated before their trip and practice good hygiene and food safety measures during their travels.

    • Sign and Symptoms

    Hepatitis A can cause a range of signs and symptoms, and they can vary from mild to severe. In some cases, especially in young children, the infection may be asymptomatic, meaning no symptoms are present. However, when symptoms do occur, they typically appear within 2 to 6 weeks after exposure to the Hepatitis A virus. Common signs and symptoms of Hepatitis A include:

  • Fatigue: Feeling tired or exhausted is a common early symptom of Hepatitis A.
  • Loss of Appetite: Hepatitis A can cause a reduced desire to eat, leading to a loss of appetite.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: Many individuals with Hepatitis A experience nausea and may also vomit.
  • Abdominal Pain: Pain or discomfort in the abdomen, particularly in the area of the liver (upper right side of the abdomen), is a common symptom.
  • Jaundice: Jaundice is the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. It is one of the hallmark signs of Hepatitis A and indicates liver involvement. Jaundice is caused by an accumulation of bilirubin, a yellow pigment, in the blood.
  • Dark Urine: Hepatitis A can lead to dark-coloured urine, which is a result of increased levels of bilirubin being excreted in the urine.
  • Pale Stools: Stools may become pale or clay-coloured due to reduced bile excretion from the liver.
  • Fever: Some individuals with Hepatitis A may develop a mild fever.
  • Joint Pain: Joint pain or muscle pain (myalgia) may be present in some cases.
  • Itchy Skin: Itching (pruritus) can occur as a result of the build-up of bilirubin in the skin.

    The severity of symptoms can vary from person to person. In most cases, Hepatitis A is a self-limiting infection, meaning it resolves on its own without specific treatment. However, some people, especially older individuals or those with pre-existing liver conditions, may experience more severe symptoms and complications.

    It's important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have been exposed to Hepatitis A or if you experience any concerning symptoms. Early diagnosis can help manage the infection and prevent complications. If you have not been vaccinated against Hepatitis A and are at risk of exposure, consider getting vaccinated as a preventive measure.