The Hepatitis A vaccine is the best way to prevent infection and is safe and effective. The vaccine, given in two doses six months apart, is injected into the arm or thigh muscle. Both shots are needed for long-term protection.
Individual Guidance
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following individuals get vaccinated against Hepatitis A:
- All children at age 1 year
- Travelers to countries where hepatitis A is common
- Family and caregivers of adoptees from countries where hepatitis A is common
- Men who have sexual encounters with other men
- People who use or inject drugs
- People with chronic or long-term liver disease, including hepatitis B or hepatitis C
- People with clotting factor disorders
- People with direct contact with others who have hepatitis A
- People experiencing homelessness
The Westfield Regional Health Department offers free Hepatitis A vaccine to non-insured individuals. Please call 908-789-4070, ext. 4074 to schedule an appointment.