hepatitis A vaccine (inactivated)

Pediatric hepatitis A vaccine is an inactivated whole-virus vaccine designed to provide active immunity against the hepatitis A virus (HAV) in children and adolescents. The vaccine is typically administered as a two-dose series, with the second dose serving as a booster to ensure long-term protection. It is produced by growing the virus in human cell culture (such as MRC-5 cells), followed by purification and inactivation with formaldehyde. The resulting antigen is usually adsorbed onto an aluminum-based adjuvant to enhance the immune response. Major manufacturers include GSK (Havrix) and Merck (Vaqta), with pediatric formulations typically containing half the antigen content or volume of the adult versions. It is indicated for the prevention of disease caused by HAV in individuals from 12 months through 18 years of age.

Brand names

HavrixVaqtaAvaximHealive

Other names

pediatric hepatitis A vaccinehepatitis A vaccineinactivated hepatitis A vaccineHepA vaccine