Hepatitis A Vaccination

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious disease which can cause inflammation or swelling of the liver. It is primarily transmitted by ingesting contaminated food and water, or by direct contact with an infectious person. It is more common in developing countries with unclean water, poor hygiene measures and sanitation.

Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from serious disease caused by hepatitis A.

The hepatitis A vaccination can be administered by itself, or in combination with hepatitis B. Generally, it is a 2-course dose, administered 6 months apart. The type of vaccination and number of doses you require will be determined by your immuniser after review of your circumstance and vaccination history.

Who is recommended to receive a hepatitis A vaccination?

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children living in, the NT, QLD, SA, and WA
• People with medical risk factors, including chronic liver disease and developmental disabilities
• People whose occupation increases their risk of acquiring hepatitis A, including:
• People who live or work in rural and remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in the NT, QLD, SA, and WA
• People who regularly provide care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in the NT, QLD, SA, and WA
• Early childhood educators and carers
• Carers of people with developmental disabilities
• Plumbers and sewage workers
• People aged 1 year or older who travel to hepatitis A–endemic areas
• People whose lifestyle increases their risk of acquiring hepatitis A, including:
• Men who have sex with men
• People who inject drugs
• Inmates of correctional facilities
• Sex industry workers

Who is eligible for a free hepatitis A vaccination?

The Australian Government’s National Immunisation Program (NIP) provides free hepatitis A vaccines to the following eligible Medicare card holders:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who live in the NT, QLD, SA, and WA at 18 months and 4 years (not available in pharmacy)

Please note, hepatitis A NIP vaccines are not currently available in pharmacies.

For more information on the Hepatitis A vaccination please click here.