Hepatitis A is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver. Hepatitis A is characterised by inflammation of the liver and can range from a mild illness to a severe condition. 

Smarta Healthcare offers Hepatitis A vaccinations for patients in and around Bedford, Milton Keynes, Luton, Letchworth, Biggleswade, St Neots, Cambridge, Sandy, Hitchin and Huntingdon, or further afield. 

Book an AskMyPharmacist travel health consultation today. 

The Hepatitis A vaccination costs £55 per dose – 1 dose is required. Discounts are available for families, groups and students. 

If you have any questions about required or recommended travel vaccinations, book an AskMyPharmacist travel health consultation at least 4 weeks before your departure date to make sure you’re ready for your trip. 

Hepatitis A is found worldwide, and the risk of infection varies by region. Travellers to areas with poor sanitation and hygiene standards are at a higher risk of contracting hepatitis A. Some regions where hepatitis A is more prevalent, and where travellers may need to take precautions, include: 

• Developing countries: Many developing countries in Asia, Africa, Central and South America, and parts of Eastern Europe have higher rates of hepatitis A. Travelers to rural areas or locations with inadequate sanitation facilities may be at an increased risk. 
• Regions with endemic Hepatitis A: Certain countries or regions may have ongoing hepatitis A transmission, making vaccination especially important for travellers. This includes various parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America.  
• Countries with limited access to clean water and sanitation: Hepatitis A is more common in areas where access to clean water and sanitation is limited. Travellers to regions with compromised hygiene infrastructure should take precautions. 
• Outbreak areas: Hepatitis A outbreaks can occur in various parts of the world, including developed countries. Monitoring local health advisories and considering vaccination is important, especially during outbreaks. 

Check the Travel Health Pro website for up-to-date information about Hepatitis A outbreaks. 

The duration of protection provided by the Hepatitis A vaccine can vary depending on the specific vaccine used and individual factors. Generally, the Hepatitis A vaccine provides long-lasting immunity. 

For the standard Hepatitis A vaccine series, which typically involves two doses administered six months apart, studies have shown that a high level of protection is maintained for at least 20 years or more. In many cases, this immunity may last a lifetime. 

In some situations, such as for individuals at continuous or increased risk of exposure to Hepatitis A, booster doses may be recommended. A Smarta Healthcare pharmacist will assess your individual requirements during your AskMyPharmacist travel health consultation – make sure to book your appointment with as much time as possible before your departure date. 

Hepatitis A is caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV), which is a member of the Picornaviridae family. It is typically transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food or water, person-to-person contact, consumption of raw or undercooked shellfish and poor sanitation.

Hepatitis A symptoms can vary widely, and some individuals infected with the virus may not experience any symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they typically appear within 15 to 50 days after exposure to the Hepatitis A virus. Common symptoms of Hepatitis A include: 

• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired and lacking energy. 
• Fever: An elevated body temperature, often accompanied by chills. 
• Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling nauseous and the potential for vomiting. 
• Abdominal Pain: Discomfort or pain in the area of the liver, which is on the right side of the abdomen. 
• Loss of Appetite: A reduced desire to eat or a loss of interest in food. 
• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes. Jaundice is a common symptom of hepatitis and is caused by the buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. 
• Dark Urine: The urine may appear darker than usual due to the presence of bilirubin. 
• Pale-Coloured Stools: Stools may become pale or clay-coloured due to reduced bile flow. 
• Joint Pain: Some individuals may experience joint pain, although this is less common. 

The severity of symptoms can vary, and some people infected with Hepatitis A may have mild or no symptoms at all. In some cases, particularly in children, the infection may be asymptomatic. However, even in cases without symptoms, individuals can still spread the virus to others. 

If you experience symptoms of Hepatitis A or suspect exposure, it’s essential to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and appropriate care. In some cases, Hepatitis A can lead to a severe illness with complications, so timely medical intervention is crucial. 

Hepatitis A is most contagious during the period before symptoms appear and during the early stages of illness. The virus can be present in the stool of an infected person, and individuals can shed the virus and potentially infect others even if they are not yet showing symptoms. The contagious period for Hepatitis A typically lasts from a few weeks before symptoms begin until about one to two weeks after the onset of jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). 

The Hepatitis A vaccine is a highly effective preventive measure, providing immunity against the virus and helping to control its spread within communities. Preventive measures to reduce the risk of transmission include practicing good hygiene, thorough hand-washing, and avoiding the consumption of contaminated food and water.