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 Content Editor

Hepatitis A (HAV) vaccine

Learn about the hepatitis A (HAV) vaccine, effectiveness, side effects, and safety.

Disease it protects from

Who should get this vaccine

People with liver problems and people who are at risk for contact with the hepatitis A virus can get this vaccine.

Ask a public health nurse to find out if you can get the HAV vaccine for free. You may need a blood test to check if you’re already protected.

The vaccine may be recommended for you if you travel to an area that has a high risk of hepatitis A. If you get the vaccine because of travel, it’s not free. Learn more about vaccines for travel.

If you can’t get the vaccine for free, check with your health insurance provider to see if your plan covers the cost.

Who should not get this vaccine

You may not be able to get this vaccine if:

  • You have an allergy to any part of the vaccine.
  • You had a severe (serious) or unusual side effect after this vaccine or one like it.

If you have allergies or have had a side effect from this vaccine in the past, check with your doctor or a public health nurse before you get the vaccine.

Although you can get the vaccine if you have a mild illness such as a cold or fever, you should stay home until you are feeling better to prevent spreading your illness to others.

Doses

Most people need 2 doses at least 6 months apart.

Other vaccines that protect against the same diseases

There are 2 other vaccines that protect against hepatitis A:

  • Twinrix protects against the hepatitis A and B viruses. People who travel often get this vaccine.
  • Vivaxim protects against the hepatitis A virus and typhoid infections. People who are travelling to areas where there is risk of hepatitis A and typhoid may get this vaccine.

If you’ve already had these vaccines, you may not need the HAV vaccine. Check with your healthcare provider to find out if you need more doses.

Get the vaccine

If you can get this vaccine for free, contact your local public health or community health centre.

If you want the vaccine and need to pay for it, contact a travel health clinic or talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Current as of: June 30, 2023
Author: Provincial Immunization Program, Alberta Health Services
Our work takes place on historical and contemporary Indigenous lands, including the territories of Treaty 6, Treaty 7 & Treaty 8 and the homeland of the Métis Nation of Alberta and 8 Métis Settlements. We also acknowledge the many Indigenous communities that have been forged in urban centres across Alberta.