Hepatitis A virus vaccine

The hepatitis A virus vaccine is an inactivated (killed) viral vaccine used for active immunization against infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). It stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies that protect against future HAV infection. The primary indication is prevention of acute liver disease caused by HAV. The standard regimen consists of two intramuscular doses administered at least six months apart for long-lasting protection. The single-antigen vaccines are approved for use in children as young as 12 months and adults; combination vaccines with hepatitis B are also available for adults. Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for all children at 12–23 months of age and unvaccinated individuals at increased risk (e.g., travelers to endemic areas, men who have sex with men, people with chronic liver disease or HIV). Major developers and manufacturers include GlaxoSmithKline (HAVRIX), Merck (VAQTA), Sanofi (AVAXIM), and Crucell/Berna Biotech/Janssen/Johnson & Johnson (Epaxal)[2][3][4][5][6][8].

Brand names

HAVRIXVAQTAAVAXIMEpaxal

Other names

hepatitis A vaccineHepA vaccineinactivated hepatitis A vaccine