Prevention

The hepatitis A vaccine can prevent infection with the virus. The vaccine is typically given in two shots. The first one is followed by a booster shot six months later.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a hepatitis A vaccine for the following people:

• All children at age 1, or older children who didn't receive the childhood vaccine
• Anyone age 1 year or older who is experiencing homelessness
• Infants ages 6 to 11 months traveling internationally
• Family and caregivers of adoptees from countries where hepatitis A is common
• People in direct contact with others who have hepatitis A
• Laboratory workers who may come in contact with hepatitis A
• Men who have sex with men
• People who work or travel in parts of the world where hepatitis A is common
• People who use any type of illicit drugs, not just injected ones
• People with clotting-factor disorders
• People with chronic liver disease, including hepatitis B or hepatitis C
• Anyone wishing to obtain protection (immunity)

If you're concerned about your risk of hepatitis A, ask your doctor if you should be vaccinated.

Follow safety precautions when traveling

If you're traveling to parts of the world where hepatitis A outbreaks occur, take these steps to prevent infection:

• Peel and wash all fresh fruits and vegetables yourself.
• Don't eat raw or undercooked meat and fish.
• Drink bottled water and use it when brushing your teeth.
• Avoid all beverages of unknown purity, with or without ice.
• If bottled water isn't available, boil tap water before drinking it.

Practice good hygiene

Thoroughly wash your hands often, especially after using the toilet or changing a diaper and before preparing food or eating.