Most people need two doses of the hepatitis A vaccine: an initial dose followed by a booster 6 to 12 months later. The first dose provides short-term protection for travel, while the booster extends immunity for at least 25 years, according to UK guidance. If you are travelling soon, knowing when to have each dose can be just as important as completing the course.
How Many Hepatitis A Vaccine Doses Do You Need?
You need two doses for longer-term protection, although one dose can still provide useful cover if you are travelling at short notice. The exact hepatitis A vaccine schedule depends on the vaccine brand and your age.
Standard Schedule for Adults and Children
Adults and children aged one year and over normally receive a single dose, followed by a booster.
- Aged 16 and over: one adult strength dose, then a booster after 6 to 12 months.
- Aged 1 to 15: one junior strength dose, then a booster after 6 to 12 months.
Combined Hepatitis A and B Vaccine
A combined vaccine protects against both viruses, so the adult course is longer.
- Standard: three doses at 0, 1 and 6 months.
- Accelerated (adults): doses on days 0, 7 and 21, plus a booster at 12 months.
- Children aged 1 to 15 may have two doses, 6 to 12 months apart.
When Should You Have the Hepatitis A Vaccine?
Ideally, have the first dose at least two weeks before you travel, giving your body time to develop antibodies. If you are leaving sooner, having the vaccine is still worthwhile.
Who Should Have the Vaccine?
The hepatitis A vaccine is not part of the routine NHS schedule because the risk in the UK is low. It may be offered free by GP practices when clinically indicated, while private vaccination is also available at pharmacies. Vaccination is advised for people at higher risk, including:
- Travelling to countries where hepatitis A is common.
- Chronic liver disease, including chronic hepatitis B or C, where a clinician advises it.
- Haemophilia treated with plasma derived clotting factors.
- Men who have sex with men and people who inject drugs.
- Occupational exposure, such as laboratory or sewage work.
- Close contacts of someone with hepatitis A.
UK guidance says vaccination is not generally needed for Northern or Western Europe, North America, Australia or New Zealand, but outbreaks happen, so check TravelHealthPro first.
What If You Miss Your Booster?
You do not need to restart the course. Simply have the booster as soon as you can, even if it is late.
How Does the Hepatitis A Vaccine Protect You?
The vaccine uses inactivated virus to train your immune system, so it cannot give you hepatitis A. The infection spreads through contaminated food, water and close contact. It can cause weeks of illness and jaundice and, in rare cases, liver failure, according to the WHO.
- Reliable protection after the booster.
- Safe for most people, with mild arm soreness as the usual side effects.
- Helps stop the virus from spreading to others.
Book Your Hepatitis A Vaccine at Nima Pharmacy
Not sure which hepatitis A vaccine schedule suits your trip? At Nima Pharmacy in Stoneleigh and Richmond, our pharmacists will review your travel dates and vaccination history, then explain your options. Book your appointment early, so you are protected before you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many doses of the hepatitis A vaccine do I need?
Two doses give lasting protection: an initial dose, then a booster after 6 to 12 months. The combined hepatitis A and B vaccine usually needs three doses.
How long does the hepatitis A vaccine last?
After the booster, protection lasts at least 25 years, according to UK guidance. A single dose alone protects for a shorter period, so completing the course is important.
How long before travelling should I have it?
Ideally at least two weeks before departure. If you are leaving sooner, have the first dose anyway, as it still offers some protection.
Is the hepatitis A vaccine safe?
Yes. It contains inactivated virus, so it cannot cause infection. The most common effects are mild soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site. Headache, tiredness and nausea are reported less often, as outlined in the UKHSA Green Book.
Can I have it alongside other travel vaccines?
Usually yes. Hepatitis A vaccine can be given at the same visit as other common travel vaccines, and a pharmacist can plan the order for you.