Hepatitis A vaccine how long does it last?

Residents in Medway ask this often. Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food and water. Travellers and some higher risk groups benefit from vaccination. This guide explains duration, booster timing, and booking at Chatham Pharmacy.

Key takeaways

• The first dose gives short term protection for travel.
• A booster after 6 to 12 months gives long term protection that lasts decades.
• Combined options have specific schedules for lasting cover.
• Book your Hepatitis A vaccine at Chatham Pharmacy in Medway.

What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver. It spreads through ingestion of tiny traces of infected stool. This often happens where sanitation is poor. Outbreaks can also occur after flooding or food handling lapses.

Risk varies by destination and length of stay. Travellers visiting friends and relatives can face higher risk. Backpacking, street food, and rural stays add exposure. Humanitarian work, childcare, and healthcare roles may also increase risk. Simple hygiene helps but vaccination provides dependable protection.

How the Hepatitis A vaccine works

The vaccine used in the United Kingdom is inactivated. It cannot cause infection. Your immune system recognises the virus parts and makes protective antibodies.

Most people develop useful protection within about two weeks. Some respond faster. Brands used in the UK include Havrix, Vaqta, and Avaxim. Protection improves after a booster. Combined vaccines with Typhoid or Hepatitis B follow different schedules.

So how long does it last?

A single dose gives short term protection for near term travel. It is suitable when you need to depart soon. It primes the immune system but does not give decades of cover.

A booster given 6 to 12 months after the first dose gives long term protection. If life gets busy, it can be given up to 36 months after the first. After the booster, protection usually lasts for decades. Many authorities describe 20 to 25 years or more. Some consider it likely to be lifelong for most people.

Children and adults follow the same principle. Paediatric formulations use smaller volumes. Schedules are set to achieve the same durable protection.

If you received a combined vaccine, check the brand and schedule.

Hepatitis A with Typhoid gives Hepatitis A priming only. You will still need a Hepatitis A booster for long term cover.

Hepatitis A with Hepatitis B follows the Twinrix schedule. Complete the course to secure lasting protection for both infections.

Do I need a booster?

If you had only one dose and it has been more than six months, plan a booster. If you are unsure of your records, speak to our team. In many cases it is safer to vaccinate than to delay travel.

Blood tests are rarely needed for routine travel decisions. People with weakened immunity should seek tailored advice. Those with chronic liver disease should also ensure full protection. Your travel plans and medical history guide the decision.

Timing before you travel

Earlier is better. Aim to start at least two to three weeks before departure. That window allows time for protection to develop. Last minute travellers can still benefit. Even a first dose offers meaningful short term protection.

If using a combined schedule, ask about accelerated options. These can help when departure is close. A follow up appointment is normally set to secure long term cover.

Side effects and safety

Most side effects are mild and settle quickly. A sore arm is common. Some people feel tired or develop a low grade fever. Headache can occur. Paracetamol can help if needed.

Do not attend for vaccination if you feel very unwell today. People with a previous severe allergy to a vaccine component should not receive it. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can be considered when travel risk is significant. Speak with a pharmacist or clinician first.

Who should get the Hepatitis A vaccine

Most travellers to areas with intermediate or high risk should consider vaccination. This includes many destinations in Africa, Asia, Central America, and parts of Eastern Europe.

People with chronic liver disease are at higher risk of severe illness. Men who have sex with men may be advised to vaccinate in outbreak settings. Close contacts of confirmed cases may be offered vaccination by public health teams. Local advice may vary by situation.

Hepatitis A at Chatham Pharmacy Medway

Our team provides pre travel consultation, vaccine supply, administration, and documentation.

Same day or next day slots are often available.

Location is Chatham Pharmacy in Medway, near Chatham High Street. We serve Chatham, Gillingham, Rochester, Rainham, and Strood.

To book, use our online system or call us for advice.

What to expect at your appointment

You complete a short pre travel questionnaire. A pharmacist checks suitability and obtains consent.

You receive the vaccination and after care advice.

We schedule your booster if needed.

FAQs

How long does protection last after one dose?

Short term protection for near term travel.

Do I need a booster if I had the first dose years ago?

Yes. Book the booster. It still works well.

Is protection lifelong after the booster?

Protection lasts for decades. Many authorities consider it likely lifelong.

How soon before travel should I get it?

Aim for two to three weeks before departure. Earlier is better.

Do children need a different schedule?

Same principle with paediatric doses. Schedules aim for long term protection.

Can I get Hepatitis A with Typhoid and still need a booster?

Yes. You still need a Hepatitis A booster later.

What if I cannot find my vaccine records?

Speak to our team. We can plan safely or restart.

Are there side effects?

Mostly mild and short lived. Sore arm, headache, tiredness, low grade fever.

Can I have the vaccine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Individual risk assessment is recommended. Speak with a clinician.

Is the vaccine available on the NHS for travel?

Travel vaccines are usually private in community pharmacy.

Book your vaccine or consultation

Travel coming up. Get protected in time with Chatham Pharmacy in Medway. Book your Hepatitis A vaccine or a quick travel consultation. Book online, visit the pharmacy, or call for advice. Serving Chatham, Gillingham, Rochester, Rainham and Strood.