Hepatitis A (Travel) Vaccine
An important travel vaccine for many international travelers.
What is the Hepatitis A (Travel) vaccine?
Hepatitis A is one of the most common vaccine-preventable infections acquired during travel. The virus spreads through contaminated food and water or close contact with an infected person. Vaccination before departure helps provide strong protection for travelers going to places where hepatitis A risk may be higher.
Key Destinations
International destinations where hepatitis A is more common
Timing
Ideally at least 2 weeks before travel before travel
Status
Recommended for many international travelers based on destination and exposure risk
About the Hepatitis A (Travel) Vaccine
Hepatitis A is one of the most common vaccine-preventable infections acquired during travel. The virus spreads through contaminated food and water or close contact with an infected person. Vaccination before departure helps provide strong protection for travelers going to places where hepatitis A risk may be higher.
Who should get this vaccine?
- International travelers going to areas where hepatitis A is more common
- Travelers who may be exposed to unsafe food or water conditions
- People visiting friends and relatives in higher-risk areas
- Anyone who has not been previously vaccinated against hepatitis A and may be at travel-related risk
Side effects & contraindications
Common side effects
- Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
Hepatitis A vaccine has a strong safety profile, and side effects are usually mild and short-lived.
Rare side effects
- Severe allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis
Who should NOT get this vaccine
- Severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of hepatitis A vaccine or to a vaccine component
- People who are currently moderately or severely ill may need to wait until they recover
Always inform your pharmacist of any allergies, medical conditions, or medications before receiving the Hepatitis A (Travel) vaccine.
Dosing Schedule
The first dose is ideally given at least 2 weeks before travel. A second dose is given at least 6 months later to complete the series and provide long-term protection.
Forms & Documents
Vaccine consent forms and Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) are provided at the pharmacy before vaccination.
Destinations
Hepatitis A travel vaccination may be recommended for travelers going to regions and countries where hepatitis A is more common or where food and water exposure risk may be higher.
When to get vaccinated
Timing: Ideally at least 2 weeks before travel
The first dose is ideally given at least 2 weeks before travel. The second dose is given at least 6 months later for long-term protection.
Required vs. Recommended
Usually recommended for many travelers to higher-risk destinations. It is not generally required for entry, but it is often strongly advised.
After your vaccination
Aftercare tips
- Apply a cool compress to the injection site if it feels sore
- Move your arm throughout the day to help reduce stiffness
- Stay hydrated and rest if you feel tired
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen if needed
- Visit our contact page if you develop severe symptoms or have concerns that do not improve after a few days
- Continue practicing safe food and water precautions during travel even after vaccination
Cost & coverage
Travel vaccines may not be covered by every insurance plan. Visit our contact page and we can help review current pricing and check your benefits when applicable.
Contact us to verify your coverageHepatitis A (Travel) FAQs
Common questions about the Hepatitis A (Travel) vaccine for travelers.
Still have questions?
Contact usProtection begins after the first dose, and getting vaccinated at least 2 weeks before travel is ideal. Even when travel is sooner, vaccination may still offer benefit and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Schedule a Travel Health Consultation
Share your travel plans through our contact page, and our team will help recommend the right vaccines for your trip.
Call us
Contact Us
Phone
(951) 406-1521Office hours
Mon–Fri: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sat: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sun: Closed
Location
10465 Arlington Ave., Suite 300
Riverside, CA 92505
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