Hepatitis A
Information about hepatitis A immunisation funded under the Immunise Australia Program.
Hepatitis A is one of several different hepatitis viruses that can cause liver infections and damage. Hepatitis A spreads by contact with infected faeces. The virus survives well on hands and in food kept at room temperature for several hours. It can also spread through contaminated water in some countries.
Symptoms can show between 15 and 50 days after infection (30 days on average) and they include:
- fever;
- weakness;
- tiredness;
- poor appetite;
- nausea;
- vomiting;
- dark urine and pale faeces;
- jaundice (yellow colouring of eyes, skin and urine);
- skin itching; and
- abdominal discomfort/pain.
Hepatitis A is a vaccine preventable disease. Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended as part of routine childhood immunisation for some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. It is listed on the National Immunisation Program (NIP) Schedule and funded for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children younger than 5 years of age living in Queensland, the Northern Territory, Western Australia and South Australia under the Immunise Australia Program. To receive hepatitis A immunisation, visit your local doctor or immunisation provider. It is important to note that the vaccine is provided at no cost, however a consultation fee may apply.
Two doses of vaccine are given between 12 and 24 months of age. Immunisation against hepatitis A is achieved using a single-disease vaccine. For information about immunisation in your area contact your State or Territory Health Department. For technical information or information about vaccines, refer to the Hepatitis A section of the Australian Immunisation Handbook 9th Edition 2008 (NHMRC).
Page last modified: 05 May, 2009