At Mendus Pharmacy, we regularly speak to individuals preparing for holidays, family visits abroad, or gap year travel. One of the most common questions we’re asked at our travel clinic in Pembroke is whether the hepatitis A vaccine is safe, especially by parents or those getting vaccinated for the first time.
In this post, we break down common concerns, dispel myths, and provide clear, trustworthy answers so you can make an informed decision about your travel health.
“I’ve never had the hepatitis A vaccine before – is it safe?”
Yes, the hepatitis A vaccine is safe for most people, including children, adults, and older travellers. It has been used worldwide for decades and has an excellent safety record. Like all licensed vaccines in the UK, it goes through rigorous testing for safety and effectiveness before it is approved. It is also continually monitored for rare adverse effects.
Whether you’re travelling for business, taking your child on a long-awaited family holiday, or visiting friends and relatives abroad, the vaccine is a reliable way to prevent a serious illness that can ruin a trip, or worse.
“Can the vaccine give me hepatitis A?”
No, you cannot catch hepatitis A from the vaccine. The hepatitis A vaccine does not contain any live virus, which means there is no risk of it causing the infection. It simply helps your immune system build protection by introducing a harmless version of the virus’s key components.
This is an important reassurance, particularly for parents who may be concerned about giving the vaccine to younger children.
“What are the side effects? Will I feel unwell afterwards?”
Most people experience little to no side effects from the hepatitis A vaccine. When side effects do occur, they are usually mild and short-lived. These may include:
Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
Mild fever
Headache or tiredness
These symptoms usually go away on their own within a day or two and are a normal sign that the body is building protection. Severe side effects are extremely rare.
If you have a known allergy to any component of the vaccine, such as neomycin, or if you’ve had a reaction to a previous dose, it’s important to let our travel health team know so we can advise accordingly.
“My child has a sensitive immune system. Can they still get the vaccine?”
Children with weakened immune systems may still be able to receive the hepatitis A vaccine safely, but this depends on their specific medical condition. At Mendus Pharmacy, we offer personalised travel health consultations where we review your child’s health history and any medication they may be taking.
It’s also worth noting that the hepatitis A vaccine is approved for children aged one and over. For children with complex health needs, we may refer you to your GP or specialist for further guidance.
“I’ve heard the vaccine wears off quickly—is that true?”
No, this is a common myth. The hepatitis A vaccine provides long-lasting protection. A single dose gives short-term protection, and a second booster dose (given six to twelve months later) provides protection that can last for at least 20 years, often longer.
Many travellers assume they need a new vaccine every time they travel, but this isn’t the case if you’ve completed the full course. If you’re unsure whether your vaccinations are up to date, we can check your records and let you know if a booster is required.
“Is it really necessary? I’m only going for a short holiday.”
Even a short trip can expose you to hepatitis A if you eat contaminated food or drink unsafe water. The virus is spread through the faecal-oral route, which means it can be picked up from undercooked food, unwashed produce, or even ice cubes in drinks.
Destinations with higher risk include parts of Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Central and South America, and Eastern Europe. Travelling to tourist areas doesn’t eliminate the risk completely. That’s why many countries are on the NHS’s recommended vaccination list for hepatitis A, regardless of the length of stay.
“Where can I get the vaccine and how soon should I book?”
You can receive the hepatitis A vaccine right here at our travel clinic in Pembroke. We recommend booking your appointment at least two weeks before travel so your body has time to build immunity before departure. If you’re leaving sooner, don’t worry, it’s still worth getting vaccinated, as the first dose begins to offer protection within a few days.
Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones
The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe, effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones from a potentially serious illness. It is well tolerated, with minimal side effects, and provides long-term peace of mind when travelling to higher-risk countries.
At Mendus Pharmacy, our travel health experts are here to guide you through every step, from risk assessment to vaccination and aftercare. Whether you’re a concerned parent or a first-time traveller, we’re ready to help you stay protected.
Contact us to book your appointment today at our travel clinic in Pembroke and travel with confidence.