How to Get Hepatitis A and B Vaccinations

Vaccines exist for both hepatitis A and hepatitis B. If you feel you are at risk for being exposed to the virus, you should have the proper vaccinations. Children and infants are often given the hepatitis vaccinations as part of their routine shot schedules. Read on to find out how to assess your risk and obtain the vaccinations.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hepatitis A or B vaccine

Decide Whether You Need Hepatitis Vaccinations

1. Have your children vaccinated for hepatitis A if you live in an area with a high incidence of the virus. Hepatitis B vaccinations are more routine, with infants typically receiving the entire series of shots in their first year.

2. Get hepatitis vaccinations if you plan on traveling to regions with high rates of hepatitis A and hepatitis B. You should see a doctor before you travel to determine which vaccinations and medications may be needed depending on your destination.

3. Consider having hepatitis vaccinations if you are a male who has sex with other males. This is the most common type of sexual contact responsible for transmission of hepatitis A and B. Any sexual partners of people diagnosed with hepatitis B should also be tested and vaccinated.

4. Speak to your doctor about vaccinations if you have any chronic illness, especially related to the kidneys or liver.

Get a Hepatitis A or B Vaccination

5. Choose a time when you can go through the entire series of shots. Hepatitis A requires two shots about six months apart. Hepatitis B has a series of three shots for most people. You doctor may schedule more or less, depending on your circumstances.

6. Visit your doctor or a clinic or pharmacy to get your first hepatitis shot. You will be given a vaccination card with the type and amount of vaccine you were given, in case you cannot return to the same place for the additional shots.

7. Let your doctor know whether you are suffering from AIDS, cancer or any other disease that affects the immune system. Treatments for certain conditions may also impact the immune system. Tell your doctor about treatments you are undergoing as well.

8. Take ibuprofen for any fever or pain associated with the hepatitis vaccination.

9. Return to your doctor for the additional doses of the hepatitis vaccines based on the schedule given to you by your doctor. If you miss a dose or get behind schedule, have your next dose as soon as possible. You do not need to start the series over.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a weakened immune system, you should wait until you are in better health to get the vaccination.
• Side effects can occur from hepatitis vaccines and should be reported to your doctor immediately.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• How to Lose 30+lbs Guaranteed. Try it Free.