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280 East Barnet Road, Barnet EN4 8TD
Barnet Travel Clinic
Essential Travel Protection

Hepatitis A Vaccination – Protect Yourself Before You Travel

Hepatitis A is a common yet preventable travel illness. A quick hepatitis A vaccination ensures safety during trips, whether for short holidays or long stays abroad.

£60
Per Dose
2-4 Weeks
Protection Starts
20+ Years
Long-term Immunity

What Is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver. It spreads through contaminated food, water, or contact with an infected person. Unlike some other illnesses, it doesn't require close contact to spread; something as simple as eating uncooked food or drinking untreated water can be enough.

Many people ask, "Is hepatitis A a bacterial infection?" The answer is no. Hepatitis A is a viral infection, not bacterial. This distinction matters because prevention relies on vaccination, not antibiotics.

Why the Hepatitis A Vaccine Matters

While treatment for hepatitis A infection exists, it only addresses symptoms and recovery. There is no cure for the virus itself; it must run its course. That's why prevention through vaccination is the safest option.

The hepatitis A vaccine UK program ensures that travelers and at-risk individuals can get protected easily. One course of vaccination offers long-lasting defense against infection, giving peace of mind wherever you travel.

How the Hepatitis A Vaccine Works

The vaccine trains your immune system to recognize and fight the virus if you're exposed in the future. Typically, the full course involves two doses:

First Dose

Gives protection within 2–4 weeks.

Initial Protection
Booster Dose

Given 6–12 months later, provides long-term immunity.

20+ Years Protection

Hepatitis A vaccine, how long before you travel?

The answer is ideally at least 2 weeks before departure. This allows time for your body to build immunity. However, even last-minute vaccination is still beneficial, as it provides partial protection almost immediately.

Side Effects and After Effects

Like all vaccines, the hepatitis A vaccine may cause mild reactions. Common hepatitis A vaccine symptoms include:

Soreness or redness at the injection site
Mild fever
Headache or tiredness
Slight nausea or muscle aches

Some people report vaccine hepatitis A side effects such as slight nausea or muscle aches, but these usually fade within a day or two.

Serious reactions are extremely rare. If you do notice a stronger reaction to the hepatitis A vaccine, it's usually short-lived. Our clinic guides what's normal and when to seek medical advice.

Hepatitis A Vaccine Cost

The cost of the hepatitis A vaccination varies by clinic and location. We provide clear and competitive pricing with no hidden extras.

£60

Per Dose

At our clinic, we provide clear and competitive pricing with no hidden extras, so you know exactly what to expect.

Who Should Get the Hepatitis A Vaccination?

The vaccine is strongly recommended if you are:

Traveling to countries with poor sanitation or limited clean water
Visiting regions where hepatitis A infection is common (parts of Asia, Africa, Central and South America)
Working in healthcare or with vulnerable groups
Living with a long-term liver condition or a weakened immune system

Even if you're only taking a short trip, a hepatitis A vaccine could save you from weeks of illness.

What If You Don't Get Vaccinated?

Without vaccination, you're at risk of catching the infection. Symptoms of hepatitis A infection include:

Fatigue
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain
Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)

Most people recover, but the illness can last for weeks and severely disrupt travel. For those with existing liver conditions, complications can be more serious.

This is why getting a hepatitis A vaccination is considered essential rather than optional for at-risk travelers.

Treatment for Hepatitis A Infection

If you do catch the virus, there is no direct cure. Treatment for hepatitis A infection focuses on rest, hydration, and managing symptoms until the body clears the virus.

Hospital care may be required in severe cases, but prevention through vaccination is far simpler and safer.

Why Choose Our Vaccination Clinic

1

Expert Guidance

Clear advice on timing, protection, and possible hepatitis A vaccine after effects.

2

Convenient Appointments

Flexible scheduling for both routine and last-minute travelers.

3

Safe and Reliable

Vaccines are administered by experienced healthcare professionals.

4

Up-to-Date Knowledge

We follow official UK guidance on all vaccinations.

Book Your Hepatitis A Vaccine Today
£60
Per Dose
Expert consultation included
Same-day appointments
Travel certificate provided
20+ years protection
Quick Facts

Protection Duration

First dose: 2-4 weeks | Full course: 20+ years

Vaccine Type

2 doses (initial + booster)

Timing

Get vaccinated at least 2 weeks before travel

High-Risk Areas

Asia, Africa, Central & South America

Book Your Hepatitis A Vaccine Today

Don't let an avoidable illness spoil your travel plans. The hepatitis A vaccination is quick, safe, and highly effective. Whether you need it weeks before your trip or at the last minute, our clinic can help you stay protected.