Hepatitis A Vaccine Singapore
Hepatitis A Vaccine in Singapore
What Is the Hepatitis A Vaccine?
The Hepatitis A vaccine is designed to protect against Hepatitis A infection, a highly contagious virus that leads to liver inflammation. By stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies, the vaccine provides long-term protection. It is particularly recommended for individuals at higher risk of exposure, such as travellers to regions where Hepatitis A is common or those with certain medical conditions.
What Causes Hepatitis A?
The infection is caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV), which spreads primarily through the consumption of contaminated food or water. It can also be transmitted via close personal contact with an infected person, particularly through poor sanitation and hygiene. Unlike other forms of hepatitis, Hepatitis A does not lead to chronic liver disease, but it can cause acute liver inflammation.
Hepatitis A Symptoms
Symptoms of Hepatitis A often appear several weeks after exposure and can include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Loss of appetite
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Dark urine
- Pale stool
Some individuals, especially children, may experience mild or no symptoms at all. Most people recover completely within a few weeks to months, but in rare cases, Hepatitis A can cause severe liver failure, particularly in older adults or those with pre-existing liver conditions.
Who Is the Hepatitis A Vaccine Recommended for?
The Hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for individuals aged 12 months and older, particularly those planning to visit or live in areas where Hepatitis A is prevalent. Those who wish to be protected from the virus, especially if they are at higher risk due to certain occupations or chronic liver disease, should consult a doctor to determine if the vaccination is suitable for you.
How Is the Hepatitis A Vaccine Administered?
The Hepatitis A vaccine is typically administered as an injection, either directly into a muscle or just beneath the skin. It can be given alone or in combination with other vaccines, such as the Hepatitis A and B combination vaccine, for broader protection.
Hepatitis A Vaccine Dose & Schedule
The recommended dosage for the Hepatitis A vaccine is as follows:
Age Group | Vaccine Dosage & Schedule |
---|---|
Individuals 12 months and older | 2 doses: 6 to 12 months apart |
How Long Does the Hepatitis A Vaccine Last?
Immunity from the Hepatitis A vaccine typically begins to develop about 4 weeks after vaccination and can last between 10 and 20 years.
What Precautions Should I Take Before a Hepatitis A Vaccination?
Before getting the Hepatitis A vaccine, it is essential to inform your doctor if you:
- You have a weakened immune system due to an illness, such as HIV infection or cancer.
- You are currently taking medications that may suppress your immune system (e.g., high-dose steroids).
- You have a history of bleeding disorders.
- You are currently unwell or have a fever.
- You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- You are taking other medications.
- You are allergic to this vaccine or any of its ingredients, including the antibiotic Neomycin.
Hepatitis A Vaccine Side Effects
Some people may experience minor side effects, such as dizziness, pain or redness at the injection site, headaches, loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting. These reactions are usually mild and temporary, but you should seek medical advice if they persist or worsen.
Uncommon but Severe Reactions to Look Out for After Your Vaccination
In rare cases, vaccinations may trigger severe allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face or eyes,
breathing difficulties, or widespread itchy rashes. Should any of these symptoms occur, immediate
medical attention is required.
Disclaimer: This is not a comprehensive list of potential side effects. The
information provided should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a doctor if you
have any concerns before receiving a vaccination.
Hepatitis A Vaccine Price in Singapore
Vaccination | Price* |
---|---|
Havrix (Hepatitis A) | $98.10/dose |
Twinrix (Hepatitis A & B) | $119.90/dose |
Engerix-B (Hepatitis B) | $54.50/dose |
*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.
If you are considering getting tested, we offer standalone tests for Hepatitis A and liver functioning,
and our various health screening
packages include testing for Hepatitis A, B, and C. Please enquire with our friendly staff for
more information.
If you're planning to visit regions with a heightened risk of other infectious diseases, consider
receiving additional travel
vaccinations as well. For home-based, group, or corporate
vaccinations, please contact us for more information.
How Do I Book a Hepatitis A Vaccination Appointment in Singapore?
Why Use Us?
Same Day Appointment
Get your vaccinations done quickly at our travel clinics.
Vaccination Proof
Certificates of immunisation will be provided.
Friendly Staff
Customer service is a top priority for us at ATA Medical.
Your vaccination will also be updated to the National Immunisation Registry (NIR) where relevant, this will allow you to keep a record of the vaccinations.
The Importance of Vaccinations
Vaccinations play a vital role in strengthening the immune system, enabling it to more effectively combat specific
infectious diseases. By reducing the likelihood of contracting serious illnesses, vaccinations help decrease the
need for frequent doctor visits and significantly lower the risk of hospitalisation.
Keeping up with recommended vaccinations allows individuals to lead a healthier lifestyle, confidently engaging in
social activities with the assurance that they are protected against contagious diseases.
At healthscreening.sg, we offer a comprehensive range of
vaccination options tailored to your health needs, from travel-related to seasonal protection, ensuring your
health is thoroughly safeguarded. Your vaccination will be updated in the National
Immunisation Registry (NIR) where applicable, allowing you to maintain a record of your immunisations.
Travel Clinics in Singapore
ATA Medical is conveniently located at two different locations:
- Tanjong Pagar Medical Clinic (Closest MRT: Tanjong Pagar EW15)
- Orchard Clinic (Closest MRT: Orchard Boulevard TE13)
Navigate Easy With Google Maps
Health Screening Singapore
(Anson House)
Health Screening Singapore
(Camden Medical Centre)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Hepatitis A vaccine is not mandatory in Singapore but is recommended for individuals at higher risk, such as travellers to areas where Hepatitis A is prevalent or those in certain occupations who wish to be further protected.
At healthscreening.sg, the Hepatitis A vaccine, Havrix, is priced at $98.10 NETT per dose. The combined Hepatitis A and B vaccine, Twinrix, is available at $119.90 NETT per dose, while the Hepatitis B vaccine, Engerix-B, costs $54.50 NETT per dose.
Yes, a vaccine for Hepatitis A is available and offers long-term protection against the virus. At healthscreening.sg, we offer the Hepatitis A vaccine for $98.10 NETT per dose, and the combined Hepatitis A & B vaccine for $119.90 NETT per dose.
Hepatitis A is not very common in Singapore due to good sanitation practices, but cases can still occur, particularly in travellers returning from areas where the virus is more prevalent.
According to the National Children Immunisation Schedule (NCIS), the two vaccines compulsory by law in Singapore are the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine and the Diphtheria and Tetanus vaccine, which are required for children.
The Hepatitis A vaccine provides long-term protection especially for individuals at higher risk of infection or those travelling to countries where the virus is common.
The Hepatitis A vaccine is generally not free in Singapore. At healthscreening.sg, the Hepatitis A vaccine (Havrix) is offered at $98.10 NETT per dose. The combined Hepatitis A and B vaccine (Twinrix) is available for $119.90 NETT per dose, and the Hepatitis B vaccine (Engerix-B) is priced at $54.50 NETT per dose.
It depends on your risk factors. Some individuals may benefit from receiving both vaccines, especially if they are at risk for infection by both viruses. It is advisable to consult a doctor to determine which vaccines are appropriate for your specific situation.
At healthscreening.sg, the Hepatitis A vaccine (Havrix) is available for $98.10 NETT per dose. The combined Hepatitis A and B vaccine (Twinrix) is priced at $119.90 NETT per dose, while the Hepatitis B vaccine (Engerix-B) costs $54.50 NETT per dose.
The Hepatitis A vaccine offers protection for 10 to 20 years after the full vaccination series is completed.
Hepatitis A is caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV), which is primarily transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food or water.
Adults need two doses of the Hepatitis A vaccine, given six to twelve months apart, to ensure long-term protection.
While Hepatitis A is usually not life-threatening, it can cause unpleasant symptoms and, in rare cases, lead to severe liver complications. Vaccination is an effective preventive measure.
Hepatitis B is generally considered more serious than Hepatitis A, as it can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, or liver cancer, whereas Hepatitis A typically does not cause long-term liver damage.
Minor side effects such as soreness at the injection site, headaches, fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, or mild nausea can occur after receiving the Hepatitis A vaccine. Some people may also experience muscle pain or dizziness. However, serious side effects are rare.
Yes, the vaccine is important for those at risk of contracting the virus, particularly travellers and people with certain health conditions.
In some cases, the Hepatitis A vaccine can cause a mild fever, but this is usually temporary.
The Hepatitis A vaccine provides long-term protection, typically lasting 10 to 20 years, but it does not offer lifelong immunity. A booster dose may be recommended after this period, depending on your risk factors.
Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through consuming food or water contaminated with the faeces of an infected person.