Hepatitis A Vaccine – Havrix Junior

(Pediatric Hepatitis A Vaccine)

Protects against:

• Hepatitis A Virus (HAV): Acute liver infection, jaundice, severe fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, liver failure (rare), prolonged illness lasting weeks to months

Who should get it:

Children (Primary Group):

• All children 12 months to 18 years
• Routine childhood immunization starting at age 1 year
• Children traveling to endemic areas
• Children with chronic liver disease
• Children in daycare settings

Also recommended for:

• Adolescents not previously vaccinated
• Children in communities with high hepatitis A rates
• Children with clotting factor disorders

Schedule:

2-dose series:

• Dose 1: 12-23 months of age (or at time of first travel)
• Dose 2: 6-12 months after first dose (minimum 6 months apart)

For travel: First dose at least 2 weeks before departure

Why vaccinate:

• Highly contagious – spreads easily through contaminated food, water, and person-to-person contact
• Children often have mild/no symptoms but spread virus to vulnerable adults
• Prevents outbreaks in daycare and school settings
• Provides long-lasting, possibly lifelong immunity after 2 doses
• Protects before travel to high-risk regions (Asia, Africa, Latin America)
• Nearly 100% effective after complete series
• Safe with minimal side effects
• Prevents weeks of illness and school absence
• Protects family members from infection
• No specific treatment exists – prevention is essential

Important note:

Havrix Junior is specifically formulated for children (lower dose than adult formulation). Complete both doses for full protection. The vaccine is highly effective and safe – over 95% protection after 2 doses. Children are often silent spreaders of hepatitis A, making vaccination important for community protection. If traveling, vaccinate at least 2 weeks before departure for adequate immunity.