Hepatitis A vaccination at OpenMed Warsaw and OpenMed Płock
Hepatitis A vaccination is an effective method of protection against viral hepatitis A, also known as "food-borne jaundice". The disease is transmitted mainly through the alimentary route, via the consumption of contaminated food or water, as well as through contact with an infected person. If you are planning a trip abroad, work in an environment with an increased risk of infection, or want to take care of your health prevention, we invite you for a hepatitis A vaccination at OpenMed in Warsaw and OpenMed in Płock. The doctor carries out the qualification for vaccination and answers all questions related to preparation and the safety of the vaccine.
Viral hepatitis A is an infectious disease caused by the HAV virus (Hepatitis A Virus). It attacks liver cells, leading to inflammation of the organ. Unlike viral hepatitis B and C, the disease does not progress to a chronic form, but it can cause long-lasting weakening of the body and a temporary inability to work or study. The most effective form of prevention remains protective vaccination.
How can you become infected with hepatitis A?
Infection most often occurs through the fecal-oral route, that is, through contact with the virus present in contaminated food, water, or on everyday-use surfaces. The risk increases during travel to countries with a lower sanitary standard, but infections can also occur in Poland.
Symptoms of the disease usually appear several weeks after infection. Initially, they resemble a viral infection and may include weakness, fever, muscle aches, nausea, and lack of appetite. At a later stage, yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, dark discolouration of the urine, and discomfort in the area of the liver may occur. In some people, especially children, the infection is asymptomatic.
Who should consider hepatitis A vaccination?
Vaccination is recommended for people who have not previously had hepatitis A and do not have immunity. It is of particular importance for travellers, healthcare workers, and workers in catering, care facilities, and all those who want to reduce the risk of falling ill. Vaccination is especially worth considering in the case of:
- planned trips to countries with an increased risk of hepatitis A,
- work related to food or the care of other people,
- chronic liver diseases,
- contact with a person infected with the HAV virus.
The qualification for vaccination is always decided by a doctor after conducting a medical history.
What does vaccination at OpenMed look like?
Before the vaccine is administered, a medical consultation takes place, during which the patient's current health status and any contraindications to vaccination are assessed. The doctor also discusses the vaccination schedule and explains when immunity can be expected to be achieved.
The vaccine is administered intramuscularly, most often in the area of the upper arm. Full protection is provided by the primary vaccination and a booster dose administered in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. After vaccination, the patient can return to everyday activities.
Safety of hepatitis A vaccination
Vaccines against viral hepatitis A are well studied and have been used worldwide for many years. The most common side effects are mild and include transient pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Less frequently, a low-grade fever, fatigue, or headache may occur.
The benefit of vaccination is long-lasting protection against falling ill and a reduction in the risk of complications associated with the infection. That is why hepatitis A vaccination is recommended as an effective element of health prevention.
Hepatitis A vaccination - FAQ
Vaccination involves administering a vaccine that stimulates the immune system to develop protection against the hepatitis A virus.
The most commonly used schedule includes a primary dose and a booster dose administered after a few months.
It is best to come for vaccination a few weeks before the planned trip, so that the body has time to develop adequate immunity.
Yes, the vaccine is well studied, and side effects are usually mild and short-lived.
Yes, vaccination can also be performed in children in accordance with current recommendations and after medical qualification.