What is it?
Hepatitis A is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus. It is found in the stool (feces) of infected persons. It is easily spread when a person puts something (food, water, hands, or an object) into his or her mouth that has infected feces on or in it. It can pass easily from one person to another in the same household or child care setting.
What can I do?
Two hepatitis A vaccines are licensed in the U.S. for people aged two years and older. Each vaccine is given in 2 doses, 6 to 18 months apart. Immunization against hepatitis A is recommended for people at risk of getting infected or who may become seriously ill if infected.
Is it safe?
Yes, the hepatitis A vaccine is safe. There is no known association between this vaccine and serious adverse events.
|
Age > Vaccine |
12 months |
15 months |
18 months |
19-23 months |
2-3 years |
4-6 years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | HepA (2 doses)* | HepA (catch-up)* |
||||
| * - Your child should get the vaccine at this age or age range. If he misses a dose, get it as soon as possible. |