Vaccination against hepatitis A is recommended for anyone aged 1 year and over travelling to areas where hepatitis A vaccination is advised, particularly for prolonged periods or where sanitation and food hygiene are poor NICE CKS.
The primary vaccination schedule for monovalent hepatitis A vaccines is a single dose, ideally given at least 2 weeks before travel, but it can be administered up to the day of departure, providing protection for 1 year NICE CKS,NICE CKS.
For long-term protection, a booster dose is recommended 6-12 months after the initial dose if the person remains at ongoing risk NICE CKS,NICE CKS.
Several licensed vaccines are available, including Avaxim, Havrix, Vaqta, and Epaxal, with specific schedules depending on age: for example, children from 1 year to 15 years typically receive 2 doses 6 months apart, providing protection for 30 years after the second dose NICE CKS,NICE CKS.
Vaccination is not recommended for children under 1 year of age, as the risk of disease in this age group is low and vaccines are not licensed for use in infants NICE CKS,NICE CKS.
In cases of rapid protection needs, such as post-exposure or during outbreaks, a single dose of monovalent vaccine is preferred NICE CKS.