Hepatitis A Vaccine Prevents Infections That Cause Liver Damage

Giving the hepatitis A vaccine can reduce the risk of someone infected with the hepatitis A virus. The way it works is by making the immune system recognize this virus, so that when the virus attacks, the body can directly fight it. Hepatitis A (HAV) is an inflammation of the liver caused by hepatitis A virus infection. Transmission of hepatitis A is through fecal-oral, ie the virus enters through the mouth through food or drink that has been contaminated with the feces of the patient. This disease can be prevented in several ways. One of them is by giving the hepatitis A vaccine, which will stimulate the body's immune system to produce antibodies against the hepatitis A virus. This vaccine contains the hepatitis A virus that has been deactivated, and its administration is done by injecting it into the upper arm muscles.

The Importance of Giving Hepatitis A Vaccine

Giving the hepatitis A vaccine needs to be done 2 times, with a distance of 6-12 months. In Indonesia, the most common types of vaccines given are the hepatitis A vaccine and the combination vaccine for hepatitis A and B. The hepatitis A vaccine is not a mandatory immunization, but it is still recommended to give it, especially to:

Toddler

The first hepatitis A vaccine should be given when the child turns 2, then the second dose can be given 6-12 months afterwards.

People who plan to travel

People who plan to travel to areas with high cases of hepatitis A are advised to get hepatitis A vaccination first. The first dose of the hepatitis A vaccine can be given as soon as possible after planning the trip.

People who are susceptible to viral infections

Hepatitis A vaccine injections also need to be given to people with chronic liver disease, men who have same-sex sexual relations, drug users, and people with weakened immune systems. Groups of people who are at risk for becoming infected with the hepatitis A virus, such as carers or animal nurses, scientists working in the hepatitis A research laboratory, and health workers, are also required to get the hepatitis A vaccine.

Safety of Hepatitis A Vaccination in Pregnant Women

Until now, it is not certain that giving hepatitis A vaccine to pregnant women is really safe. However, this vaccine is still possible to be given if the benefits outweigh the risks. consult with your doctor to consider whether or not the hepatitis A vaccine is given. People who have had a severe allergic reaction to the first dose of vaccine are advised not to receive the second dose of hepatitis A vaccine. Therefore, you should tell your doctor if you have a severe allergic reaction, such as a swollen face and shortness of breath, after giving the vaccine. The hepatitis A vaccine needs to be postponed if you experience severe pain. For mild illness, such as colds or cold coughs, hepatitis A vaccine may still be administered. Giving the hepatitis A vaccine can indeed prevent hepatitis A virus infection. However, administering the vaccine alone is not enough. You also need to implement other preventative measures, namely washing your hands with clean water and soap before eating and after using the toilet, and avoiding the consumption of food that is not guaranteed to be clean.