Hepatitis A Vaccination: Essential Protection for Travellers
Hepatitis A is one of the most common vaccine-preventable infections among travellers. Learn why vaccination is essential and how we can help.
Hepatitis A Vaccination: Essential Protection for Travellers
Hepatitis A is one of the most common vaccine-preventable infections acquired by travellers. Whether you're backpacking through Southeast Asia, enjoying street food in Mexico, or visiting family in South Asia, Hepatitis A vaccination should be high on your pre-travel checklist.
What is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver. Unlike Hepatitis B and C, it doesn't cause chronic liver disease, but it can make you seriously unwell for weeks or even months.
How is it Transmitted?
Hepatitis A spreads through the faecal-oral route:
- Contaminated food or water
- Raw or undercooked shellfish
- Unwashed fruits and vegetables
- Close contact with an infected person
- Poor sanitation and hygiene
Symptoms
Symptoms typically appear 2-6 weeks after exposure:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain (especially upper right)
- Loss of appetite
- Low-grade fever
- Dark urine
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
Adults tend to experience more severe symptoms than children. Recovery can take several months, and there's no specific treatment—only supportive care.
Who Needs the Hepatitis A Vaccine?
We recommend Hepatitis A vaccination for travellers visiting:
- Africa
- Asia (including the Indian subcontinent)
- Central and South America
- The Caribbean
- The Middle East
- Eastern Europe
Even luxury resorts in high-risk areas carry some risk, as food handlers may be infected.
Also Recommended For:
- People with chronic liver disease
- Men who have sex with men
- People who inject drugs
- Those working with Hepatitis A in laboratory settings
The Vaccination Schedule
Single Antigen Vaccine (Havrix/Avaxim)
- Dose 1: At least 2 weeks before travel
- Dose 2: 6-12 months later for long-term protection
A single dose provides protection for approximately one year. The booster dose extends protection for at least 25 years—possibly lifelong.
Combined Vaccines
We also offer combined vaccines for convenience:
- Hepatitis A + Hepatitis B (Twinrix): Ideal if you need both
- Hepatitis A + Typhoid (Viatim): Two essential travel vaccines in one
Why Get Vaccinated at Pulteney Pharmacy?
✔ Same-day appointments often available
✔ Expert travel health advice included
✔ Competitive pricing with transparent costs
✔ Convenient Bath location
✔ Full vaccination record provided
Don't Risk Your Holiday
Hepatitis A can turn a dream holiday into a nightmare. Symptoms often start just as you're due to fly home—or worse, during your trip.
Book your Hepatitis A vaccination today and travel with confidence.
📞 01225 466454 | 📍 35 Great Pulteney Street, Bath