Hepatitis A & Hepatitis B Vaccine

Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B vaccines protect against infections caused by the Hepatitis A and B viruses, which affect the liver and can lead to serious complications.

 

Hepatitis A Vaccine:

• Purpose: Prevents infection with the Hepatitis A virus, which is typically spread through contaminated food or water.
• Vaccine schedule:
  • Administered in two doses, usually 6 months apart.
  • Provides long-term protection, potentially lasting a lifetime.
• Who should get it:
  • Travelers to countries with high Hepatitis A rates.
  • People with chronic liver disease.
  • Individuals who work with or may be exposed to the virus.

 

Hepatitis B Vaccine:

• Purpose: Protects against Hepatitis B, which is transmitted through blood, sexual contact, or from mother to baby during birth. Chronic Hepatitis B can lead to liver failure, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.
• Vaccine schedule:
  • Typically given in 3 doses over 6 months (0, 1, and 6 months schedule). There is also a 2-dose schedule available for some adults.
• Who should get it:
  • Newborns (part of routine vaccination schedule).
  • Healthcare workers and individuals with high-risk lifestyles (e.g., IV drug users, people with multiple sexual partners).
  • People with chronic liver conditions or those who travel to high-risk areas.

 

Combination Vaccine (Twinrix):

For convenience, there is a combination vaccine called Twinrix, which provides protection against both Hepatitis A and B. It’s administered in three doses over 6 months.

Side Effects:

• Both vaccines are generally safe and well-tolerated. Common side effects include pain at the injection site, fatigue, and mild fever.

Would you like more specific details about availability or recommendations for your patients at Klinik Sentosa?