Hepatitis A Vaccination: What You Need to Know

Protect yourself and your community with safe and effective immunisation

What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver. It spreads through ingestion of contaminated food or water or through close contact with an infected person. Although Hepatitis A doesn’t cause chronic liver disease, it can lead to serious illness, particularly in adults.

Common symptoms include:

  • Fever

  • Fatigue

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Abdominal discomfort

  • Dark urine and jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

In Australia, the Hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for:

  • Travellers to countries where Hepatitis A is common

  • Children in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities (as part of the National Immunisation Program)

  • People with chronic liver disease

  • Men who have sex with men

  • People who inject drugs

  • People who work in high-risk occupations (e.g., childcare, sewerage workers)

If you’re unsure whether you need the Hepatitis A vaccine, your GP in Bentleigh can advise you based on your lifestyle, travel plans, and medical history.

How is the Vaccine Given?

The Hepatitis A vaccine is administered as an injection in the upper arm. For full protection, two doses are required:

  • The second dose is given 6 to 12 months after the first.

  • A combination vaccine for Hepatitis A and B is also available and requires three doses.

Is the Hepatitis A Vaccine Safe?

Yes. The Hepatitis A vaccine is very safe and well-tolerated. Side effects, if any, are usually mild and may include:

  • Soreness at the injection site

  • Headache

  • Fatigue

Severe allergic reactions are rare. If you have concerns about vaccine safety, speak to your GP before immunisation.

Travel and Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is common in parts of Asia, the Pacific Islands, Africa, the Middle East, and Central and South America. If you’re planning to travel overseas, visit your local GP in Bentleigh at least 4–6 weeks before departure to discuss vaccinations.

Where Can You Get the Hepatitis A Vaccine in Bentleigh?

Bentleigh Doctors GP Clinic offers Hepatitis A vaccinations for individuals, families, and travellers. We can also provide combination vaccines for Hepatitis A and B, as well as other recommended travel vaccinations.

Our experienced doctors will assess your health needs and ensure you’re fully protected. Conveniently located in Bentleigh, Victoria, our clinic is easily accessible for residents in nearby suburbs such as Moorabbin, Ormond, Brighton East, and McKinnon.

Why Choose a GP for Your Vaccination?

Seeing your GP for vaccinations ensures:

  • Your immunisation history is reviewed properly

  • Any medical conditions are taken into account

  • You receive appropriate aftercare

  • Vaccinations are recorded in the Australian Immunisation Register

Plus, your local GP can provide ongoing support and guidance for your overall health.

Book Your Appointment Today

Whether you’re preparing for a trip, managing a chronic condition, or simply looking after your health, Hepatitis A vaccination is a smart and safe choice.

Call your GP in Bentleigh or visit Bentleigh Doctors GP Clinic to book your vaccination appointment.

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