Thanks to immunizations that have been routinely given, the incidences of contracting Hepatitis A has decreased considerably. It is, however, something to watch out for. Particularly if foreign travel is in your near future, consider making sure you have been vaccinated for Hepatitis A.
What is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is caused by a viral infection. The virus is present in the stool of someone with the disease, and is spread quickly.
Hepatitis A can be spread person-to-person through direct contact with faecal matter. It can also be contracted by someone who swims, surfs, or kayaks in water that is contaminated by untreated sewage discharge. Everyone’s symptoms may be different, and children may have no symptoms at all. Spreading the disease is very easy to do. That’s why children are routinely vaccinated against Hepatitis A.
Hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective.
Parents in Phoenix, AZ, often ask the question “Should I vaccinate my child?” The Centers for Disease Control recommends that children between the ages of 12 months and 23 months should be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. There are two doses of the vaccine given six months apart. If you have any concerns, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.
Your pediatrician will know exactly the right time to get your child on a Hepatitis A vaccine schedule. It is just one of the routine immunizations that start when your baby is a few months old.
Vaccines for foreign travel
If your family will be traveling to countries where there is a high or intermediate occurrence of Hepatitis A, it is imperative for your children to be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. These are all precautions that should be taken to protect your family against any unknown diseases which can seriously effect your children when traveling outside of the Phoenix, AZ area.
Hepatitis A is commonly found in places where there is a high incidence of unsanitary conditions. Depending on the country you are traveling to, it’s always best to be safe rather than sorry later on.
Who should not get a Hepatitis A vaccine?
If your child has been given the first dose of a Hepatitis A vaccine and has had any kind of serious reaction, then they should discontinue further doses. Everyone else should receive their vaccine accordingly.
