Should I Get A Hepatitis A Vaccine?

Our office provides hepatitis A vaccines. Read below to learn more and decide if you might need a vaccine!

Hepatitis A is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). Hepatitis A can affect anyone. Hepatitis A is a highly contagious, short-term liver infection. Vaccines are available for long-term prevention of HAV infection in persons 1 year of age and older. Good personal hygiene and proper sanitation can also help prevent the spread of hepatitis A.

Since the hepatitis A vaccine was first recommended in 1996, cases of hepatitis A in the United States declined dramatically. Unfortunately, in recent years the number of people infected has been increasing because there have been multiple outbreaks of hepatitis A in the United States resulting from person-to-person contact.

Not everyone with hepatitis A has symptoms. Adults are more likely to have symptoms than children. If symptoms develop, they usually appear 2 to 7 weeks after infection. Symptoms usually last less than 2 months, although some people can be ill for as long as 6 months.

If symptoms develop, they can include:

  • Yellow skin or eyes

  • Not wanting to eat

  • Upset stomach

  • Throwing up

  • Stomach pain

  • Fever

  • Dark urine or light- colored stools

  • Diarrhea

  • Joint pain

  • Feeling tired

A doctor can determine if you have hepatitis A by discussing your symptoms and ordering a blood test that can tell whether you have been recently infected with the virus that causes hepatitis A.

The best way to prevent hepatitis A is through vaccination with the hepatitis A vaccine.

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