Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV). While many people recover fully, the infection can cause significant illness and may disrupt travel plans or require medical treatment.

The virus is typically transmitted through:

• Contaminated food and water
• Poor sanitation and hygiene conditions
• Close personal contact with an infected individual

Travellers visiting certain countries may face an increased risk of exposure.

Symptoms may develop several weeks after infection and can include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach discomfort
• Dark-coloured urine
• Pale stools
• Joint pain
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)

Not everyone experiences symptoms, but infected individuals can still spread the virus to others.

Hepatitis A vaccination is often recommended for people who are:

• Travelling to countries with a higher risk of Hepatitis A
• Visiting friends or family abroad
• Working in healthcare, aid, or humanitarian services
• Staying in areas with limited sanitation facilities
• Planning long-term travel to developing regions
• At increased risk due to certain medical or lifestyle factors

Our travel health team can assess your destination and travel plans to determine whether vaccination is appropriate for you.

The Hepatitis A vaccine is given as an injection and provides effective protection against infection.

• One initial dose provides short-term protection
• A booster dose is usually given 6–12 months later
• Long-term protection may last for many years after the booster dose

For optimal protection, travellers should ideally receive their vaccine at least two weeks before departure.

Vaccination is commonly recommended for travel to parts of:

• Africa
• Asia
• Central and South America
• The Middle East
• Eastern Europe

Risk levels vary by destination, so a travel consultation is always recommended before travelling.

Alongside vaccination, travellers should take sensible precautions, including:

• Washing hands regularly with soap and water
• Drinking bottled or treated water
• Avoiding ice in drinks unless the water source is known to be safe
• Eating thoroughly cooked food
• Avoiding raw or undercooked seafood
• Peeling fruits and vegetables where possible

These measures can help reduce the risk of Hepatitis A and other travel-related illnesses.

• Expert travel vaccination advice
• Convenient appointment availability
• Personalised travel health consultations
• Experienced healthcare professionals
• Competitive vaccination services
• Friendly and confidential care

We are committed to helping travellers stay protected and healthy throughout their journey.

Planning a trip abroad? Book a travel health consultation at Rusholme Pharmacy to discuss your vaccination requirements.

Our team can advise you on Hepatitis A protection, destination-specific health risks, and any additional travel vaccines you may require before departure.

Book your Hepatitis A Vaccination today and travel with greater confidence.