Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious acute liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). It is usually transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water or through close contact with an infected person. Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin), and fever.

Majority of those infected experience mild illness that lasts one to three weeks and recover fully.  Rarely, the infection can cause severe complications, especially in older adults and individuals with preexisting liver conditions. The hepatitis A vaccine is a highly effective method for preventing the disease. It is typically administered in two doses, six months apart, and is recommended for children over one year of age, as well as for adults at increased risk of HAV infection or severe disease outcomes.

The National Immunisation Program (NIP) covers the hepatitis A vaccine for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia and the Northern Territory.

The introduction of the hepatitis A vaccine has significantly reduced the incidence of the disease in areas where the vaccine is routinely administered. The vaccine provides long-term protection and is an important tool in controlling outbreaks and preventing the spread of hepatitis A. In addition to individual protection, widespread vaccination contributes to community immunity, further reducing the transmission of the virus.

The Benefits of Hepatitis A Vaccination

1. Prevention of Hepatitis A: The vaccine is highly effective in preventing hepatitis A infection, protecting individuals from the acute liver disease caused by the virus.
2. Protection for High-Risk Groups: Vaccination is particularly important for people at higher risk, such as travellers to regions with high HAV prevalence, men who have sex with men, people with chronic liver disease, and those working in settings with increased exposure to the virus.
3. Long-Term Immunity: The hepatitis A vaccine provides long-lasting immunity, typically for at least 20 years and possibly for life, reducing the likelihood of future infections.
4. Control of Outbreaks: Widespread vaccination helps control and prevent outbreaks of hepatitis A, protecting public health and reducing the burden on healthcare systems.
5. Reduced Transmission: By decreasing the number of HAV carriers, the vaccine helps reduce the overall transmission of the virus within the community, contributing to broader public health efforts to eliminate the disease.

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