Hepatitis A
Prioritize Your Health in Beverly, MA
NIMVAX, a vaccine-only pharmacy located in Beverly, Massachusetts, is dedicated to providing the highest quality immunization services to our patients. One of the most important vaccines offered by NIMVAX is the Hepatitis A vaccine. The Hepatitis A vaccine is given in one of two ways — either as a single dose given in two shots, six months apart, or as a combination vaccine for patients 18 and older that also protects against Hepatitis B administered in three shots over six months. Both vaccines require that all doses be administered for full, long-term effectiveness.
What Is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is a highly contagious virus that is spread through contact with contaminated food or water. It can also be spread through contact with an infected person, either through sexual contact or through contact with their bodily fluids. The virus affects the liver and can cause a variety of symptoms including nausea, fatigue, abdominal pain, and jaundice. Left untreated, Hepatitis A can lead to serious complications such as liver failure and even death.
How Does the Hepatitis A Vaccine Work?
The Hepatitis A vaccine offered by NIMVAX is an inactivated virus vaccine, meaning it contains an inactive virus that cannot cause infection. The vaccine is injected into the patient’s arm or thigh, and the body begins to produce antibodies to the virus. These antibodies help protect the patient from infection if they are exposed to the virus. The vaccine provides long-term protection against the virus, and the immunity lasts for up to 20 years after the second dose according to the CDC.
Who Should Be Vaccinated Against Hepatitis A?
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the CDC state that the following groups should be vaccinated for Hep A:
- Children between ages 12-23 months
- Unvaccinated children ages 2-18
- Pregnant women at risk for infection
What Groups Have an Elevated Risk for Hepatitis A Infection?
While Hepatitis A vaccinations are recommended for everyone, there are particular groups at higher risk. These groups include but aren’t limited to international travelers, those with an occupational risk of exposure, those experiencing homelessness, and individuals with chronic liver disease or human immunodeficiency virus infection.
Can the Hepatitis A Vaccine Be Given Concurrently With Another Vaccine?
The Hepatitis A vaccine can be safely given concurrently with other vaccines without any decrease in its efficacy. This is due to the fact that the vaccine is an inactivated virus, meaning it does not contain live viruses and therefore does not interfere with the effectiveness of other vaccines. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that the Hepatitis A vaccine be given at the same time as other recommended vaccines, such as the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, and tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine. Receiving the Hepatitis A vaccine concurrently with other vaccines can help protect against multiple illnesses and provide the most comprehensive protection.
What to Expect at Your Hepatitis A Vaccine Appointment
At NIMVAX, the Hepatitis A vaccine is administered by a team of experienced and knowledgeable healthcare professionals. The team is committed to providing the highest level of care and ensuring that all patients receive the highest quality of care. NIMVAX also provides pre- and post-vaccination counseling to ensure that patients understand the importance of the vaccine and the risks associated with it.
Our Quality Promise to Our Patients
NIMVAX is committed to providing high-quality immunization services to our patients. The Hepatitis A vaccine is an important part of keeping everyone healthy and safe from this highly contagious virus. With the help of NIMVAX, patients can rest assured that they are receiving the highest quality of care and the best possible protection against Hepatitis A.
Choose Our Vaccine-Only Pharmacy in Beverly
Our Vaccine-only Pharmacy offers Hepatitis A vaccines for both children and adults. We offer a convenient walk-in service, or you can schedule an appointment. Our pharmacy is staffed by experienced and caring pharmacy professionals, so schedule your vaccines today at NIMVAX.
