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What is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). Unlike Hepatitis B and C, Hepatitis A does not cause chronic liver disease, but it can cause debilitating flu-like symptoms, severe abdominal pain, and jaundice. In severe cases particularly in older adults or individuals with underlying liver conditions, it can cause serious liver complications.
The virus is transmitted primarily through the faecal-oral route: by consuming food or water contaminated with infected faecal matter, or through close personal contact with an infected individual.
At Livewell Clinic Pharmacy, we offer a private Hepatitis A Vaccination Service at our Soho, London clinic to protect travellers heading to high-risk regions, visitors to friends and family abroad, and individuals with occupational or lifestyle exposure.
Why Get Vaccinated Against Hepatitis A?
Because Hepatitis A spreads easily via contaminated food, ice, and drinking water, vaccination is the most reliable way to protect yourself when travelling:
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High Efficacy: Provides rapid protection starting within 2 to 4 weeks after your initial dose.
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Long-Term Immunity: A second booster dose given 6 to 12 months after the first dose provides long-term immunity lasting up to 25 years.
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Essential for Travel: Recommended when travelling to high-prevalence areas across parts of Africa, Asia, Central and South America, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe.
Dosing Schedule & Long-Term Protection
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Primary Dose (Dose 1): Administered at your appointment. Provides effective initial protection for your upcoming trip. Ideally, this should be given at least 2 weeks before travel, though it can be administered closer to departure if travel is imminent.
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Booster Dose (Dose 2): Administered 6 to 12 months after the primary dose (up to 18–36 months depending on the specific vaccine formulation used). Receiving your second dose extends your protection for up to 25 years.
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Interrupted Courses: If you had your first Hepatitis A jab years ago and missed your booster, you generally do not need to restart the course—you can simply receive the second dose to complete your long-term immunity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who should get the Hepatitis A vaccine?
Vaccination is strongly recommended for:
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Travellers to countries with moderate to high rates of Hepatitis A (particularly outside Western Europe, North America, and Australasia).
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People visiting friends and relatives in higher-risk destinations.
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Long-term travellers, backpackers, or those visiting areas with basic sanitation and water infrastructure.
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Individuals with chronic liver disease, bleeding disorders, or occupational risk factors.
Who should NOT receive the vaccine?
You should avoid or postpone the Hepatitis A vaccine if you:
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Are an infant under 1 year of age.
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Have had a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of a Hepatitis A vaccine or any of its components (such as neomycin).
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Are currently feeling unwell with a high fever or acute infection on the day of your visit.
What are the common side effects?
The vaccine is safe and well tolerated. Mild, temporary side effects usually clear within a couple of days and include:
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Mild soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
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Mild headache or fatigue
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Temporary loss of appetite, mild nausea, or low-grade fever
Does the vaccine replace food and water precautions?
No. While the vaccine is highly effective, it should always be combined with safe food, water, and personal hygiene practices:
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Drink bottled, boiled, or purified water, and avoid ice made from tap water.
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Eat hot, freshly cooked food, and avoid raw seafood or unpeeled fruit/vegetables.
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Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before meals.
Book Your Hepatitis A Vaccination Today
Ensure you are fully protected before your trip in three simple steps:
- Book Online: Select your preferred appointment date and time slot.
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Clinical Assessment: Meet with our pharmacist at our Soho location to review your travel itinerary and health status.
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Vaccination: Receive your jab safely in a comfortable clinical room.