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Hepatitis A Vaccine

Diseases
Vaccines
31 August 2026

The Disease

Hepatitis A is a viral disease caused by a virus that attacks the liver. The disease is transmitted through contaminated food and water and from person to person. Children usually do not develop symptoms or have only mild symptoms. For some patients, recovery can take several months, and in rare, severe cases, the liver can be damaged to the point that a transplant is needed.

The Vaccine

The hepatitis A vaccine contains inactivated viruses.

After receiving 2 doses of the vaccine, protection against the disease lasts for at least 20 years.

After vaccination, side effects may occur. Most are mild and go away on their own within a day or two. Common side effects include redness, pain, or swelling at the injection site and fever. In rare cases, fatigue, loss of appetite, or diarrhea may occur.

Routine Immunization Schedule for Infants and Children

Vaccine schedule

  • 18 months
  • 24 months
Full Schedule

The Disease

Hepatitis A is a disease caused by the Hepatitis A virus, which attacks the liver. The disease is transmitted through contaminated food and water and from person to person. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, headache, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice.

Children usually do not develop symptoms of the disease, or their symptoms are mild. For some people, recovery can take several months, and in severe and rare cases, the liver can be damaged to the point that a transplant is needed.

The Vaccine

Vaccine composition How the vaccine is given
Inactivated viruses By injection into the thigh

Impact of the vaccine in Israel: Until 1999, when the vaccine was added to the routine immunization schedule, 2,500–4,000 cases were reported each year. Since then, the number of cases has decreased, and today there are fewer than 100 cases per year.

Catch-up vaccination: If your child is school age and has not previously received the hepatitis A vaccine, which is included in the routine immunization schedule, you can contact the school nurse to arrange catch-up vaccination. In addition, the school health team will let you know if any vaccinations need to be completed and will help arrange catch-up vaccination with your consent.

Duration of Protection

After receiving 2 doses of the vaccine, protection against the disease lasts for at least 20 years.

Learn more about routine immunization catch-up

Possible Side Effects After Vaccination and How to Relieve Them

Side effects may occur after vaccination. Most are mild and go away on their own within a day or two.

  • Tiredness: Allow time to rest. If necessary, you can give medication to reduce fever and relieve pain.
  • Loss of appetite: Offer light foods according to the child's preference and age.
  • Diarrhea: Make sure the child drinks enough fluids and monitor their condition.

In adults, headaches, muscle and joint pain, nausea, and vomiting have also been reported in rare cases.

Learn more about vaccine side effects

When to Contact Your HMO or an Emergency Medical Center After Vaccination

  • If your child seems apathetic.
  • If a fever does not go away after 24–48 hours.
  • If changes in appetite and eating patterns do not go away after 24–48 hours.
  • If seizures occur. They are usually related to a rise in body temperature, but it is important to seek medical attention.
  • If you notice anything that causes you concern or worry.

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