Overview
Protects against hepatitis A virus infection, spread through contaminated food and water.
Recommended for all travellers to endemic areas. Part of the Australian childhood immunisation schedule since 2005 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
Vaccination Schedule
Standard schedule: 2 doses: initial dose, then booster at 6-12 months
Accelerated schedule: Twinrix accelerated schedule: 0, 7, 21 days + 12-month booster
Route: Intramuscular injection
Brands Available in Australia (TGA-Registered)
- Havrix (GSK)
- Vaqta (MSD)
- Avaxim (Sanofi)
- Twinrix (GSK) — Combined Hepatitis A + B
Cost in Australia
Estimated cost: $60-$90 per dose
Medicare/PBS: Not funded under NIP for adult travellers. Available on private prescription. Funded for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in WA, NT, QLD, SA.
Efficacy & Duration
Efficacy: Close to 100% after 2-dose course
Single dose provides protection within 2-4 weeks for 95% of recipients. Two-dose course provides at least 25 years of protection.
Duration of protection: At least 25 years after full course; likely lifelong
Side Effects
| Side Effect | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Injection site pain, redness, swelling | Very common (>50%) |
| Headache, fatigue, mild fever | Common (10-50%) |
| Nausea, loss of appetite | Uncommon (1-10%) |
Contraindications
- Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose or vaccine component
- Severe illness (defer vaccination)
Special Populations
Pregnancy
Category B2. Can be given if clearly indicated. Inactivated vaccine.
Children
Licensed from 12 months of age. Paediatric formulation available (Havrix Junior). Two-dose schedule same as adults.
Immunocompromised Travellers
Safe to administer as an inactivated vaccine. May have reduced immune response. Post-vaccination serology recommended to confirm seroconversion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need the Hepatitis A vaccine for Bali?
Yes. Hepatitis A is recommended for all travellers to Indonesia including Bali. The virus is transmitted through contaminated food and water, which is a risk even in tourist areas.
How long does Hepatitis A vaccine protection last?
After the full two-dose course, protection lasts at least 25 years and is likely lifelong. A single dose provides good short-term protection for about 12 months.
Is the Hepatitis A vaccine covered by Medicare?
No. For adult travellers, Hepatitis A vaccination is not covered by Medicare or the PBS. You will need a private prescription. Expect to pay $60-$90 per dose plus a consultation fee.
Can I get a combined Hepatitis A and B vaccine?
Yes. Twinrix combines both Hepatitis A and B vaccines. The standard course is 3 doses over 6 months, but an accelerated schedule (0, 7, 21 days + 12-month booster) is available for last-minute travellers.
How many doses of Hepatitis A vaccine do I need?
Two doses for long-term protection. The second dose is given 6-12 months after the first. Even if you only have time for one dose before travel, it still provides good short-term protection.
What are the side effects of the Hepatitis A vaccine?
Side effects are generally mild. The most common is soreness at the injection site. Some people experience headache, fatigue, or mild fever for 1-2 days. Serious side effects are very rare.
Is Hepatitis A vaccine safe during pregnancy?
Hepatitis A vaccine is an inactivated vaccine and is classified as Category B2 in Australia. It can be given during pregnancy if clearly indicated, such as travel to a high-risk area. Discuss with your doctor.
At what age can children receive the Hepatitis A vaccine?
Children can receive the Hepatitis A vaccine from 12 months of age. A paediatric formulation (Havrix Junior) is available. It is part of the routine childhood schedule for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in several states and territories.
Sources & References
Last updated: April 2026