Hepatitis A Vaccine in Singapore: Your Shield Against Liver Infection
Hepatitis A is a liver infection that can affect anyone, especially those who travel frequently or live in regions where the virus is more common. In Singapore, where food safety is generally high, outbreaks are rare but not impossible. Hepatitis A is caused by a virus and spreads easily through contaminated food or water. The good news is that this illness is highly preventable with a safe and effective vaccine.
Getting the Hepatitis A vaccine is a simple yet powerful way to protect your liver and stay ahead of any unexpected risks. Whether you are a frequent traveller or just keen on looking after your health, vaccination offers peace of mind and long-term protection.
What is the Hepatitis A Vaccine?
Hepatitis A is a viral liver infection that causes inflammation and affects how well your liver functions. It is caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV), which is usually spread through consuming food or water that has been contaminated by faecal matter. This means even a shared meal or a sip of unclean water while travelling can pose a risk.
The symptoms of Hepatitis A can vary in severity. Common signs include:
- Feeling extremely tired
- Nausea
- Stomach discomfort
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- A low-grade fever
Some people may not show symptoms at all, especially young children.
While many people recover completely within a few weeks or months, others—especially older adults or those with pre-existing liver conditions—may experience more serious complications. In these cases, the infection can lead to prolonged illness and require hospital care.
Hepatitis A vs Hepatitis B vs Hepatitis C
Although all three types affect the liver, they differ in how they spread, how serious the illness is, and whether they become long-term conditions.
| Hepatitis Type | Transmission Method | Severity and Duration | Vaccine Available | Risk of Chronic Infection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Contaminated food or water | Causes acute illness only, most recover fully | Yes | No |
| Hepatitis B | Blood, bodily fluids, unprotected sex, mother-to-child | Can be acute or chronic, may lead to liver cancer | Yes | Yes |
| Hepatitis C | Blood (shared needles, past medical procedures) | Often silent, leads to chronic liver disease | No (but curable with treatment) | Yes |
Is the Hepatitis A Vaccine Important?
The Hepatitis A vaccine is important because it helps prevent liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus. This infection can lead to liver inflammation, fatigue, jaundice, and more serious complications in some individuals. Additionally, by providing strong, long-lasting protection, the vaccine plays a key role in reducing the number of Hepatitis A cases and limiting the impact of acute hepatitis in Singapore.
Widespread vaccination also reduces the chance of outbreaks by decreasing the virus’s ability to spread within the community. This not only protects individuals who receive the vaccine but also helps shield vulnerable groups who are more likely to face complications. In this way, getting vaccinated contributes to both personal and public health protection.
Who should get the Hepatitis A Vaccine?
Certain groups face a higher risk of exposure or complications and are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated.
These include:
- Travellers to high-risk areas: If you are heading to countries where Hepatitis A is more common, getting vaccinated beforehand is highly recommended.
- People with chronic liver disease: A Hepatitis A infection can be more dangerous for those with existing liver problems, so protection is essential.
- Individuals in close-contact settings: This includes people who live or work in group environments, such as care facilities, military camps, or childcare centres.
- Food handlers: Because Hepatitis A can be spread through contaminated food, those who work in food preparation or service can benefit from vaccination to protect both themselves and the public.
- Children and adults in outbreak settings: During local outbreaks, public health authorities may recommend the vaccine to contain the spread.
If you fall into any of these categories, it is worth having a conversation with your doctor about getting protected.
When and How Often Should You Get Vaccinated?
The Hepatitis A vaccine is typically given as two doses, with the second dose administered six months after the first. This schedule provides long-term immunity, so it is worth completing the full course even if you miss the second dose timeline by a bit.
In Singapore, the Hepatitis A vaccine is available at many GP clinics including Healthway Medical clinics. If you are unsure whether you have already been vaccinated or need a booster, our doctor can help check your records or suggest a blood test.
What to Expect During and After the Vaccination
Receiving the Hepatitis A vaccine is typically a smooth and simple experience that takes just a few minutes. At the clinic, your clinic assistant or doctor will review your medical history and confirm whether you are suitable for the vaccine. The injection itself is typically given in the upper arm and takes just a few seconds.
After receiving the vaccine, you may be asked to stay at the clinic for a short observation period, usually about 15 minutes, to monitor any immediate reactions. Most people experience only mild side effects, which may include:
- Slight soreness or redness at the injection site
- Feeling a bit tired or fatigued
- Mild headache
- Low-grade fever
- Loss of appetite
These symptoms are normal and usually go away within a day or two.
It is a good idea to drink plenty of fluids and take it easy for the rest of the day if you feel unwell. Severe reactions are extremely rare, but if you have concerns after the vaccination, contact your doctor for advice.
A Simple Step Towards Liver Protection
Vaccination is quick, convenient, and provides lasting peace of mind. Whether you are travelling soon, caring for your health, or simply planning ahead, the Hepatitis A vaccine is a practical choice for safeguarding your liver and well-being.
Book an appointment at your nearest Healthway Medical clinic or speak to our doctor about whether the Hepatitis A vaccine is right for you.
Book Your VaccinationHepatitis A Vaccine in Singapore: Your Shield Against Liver Infection
Hepatitis A is a liver infection that can affect anyone, especially those who travel frequently or live in regions where the virus is more common. In Singapore, where food safety is generally high, outbreaks are rare but not impossible. Hepatitis A is caused by a virus and spreads easily through contaminated food or water. The good news is that this illness is highly preventable with a safe and effective vaccine.
Getting the Hepatitis A vaccine is a simple yet powerful way to protect your liver and stay ahead of any unexpected risks. Whether you are a frequent traveller or just keen on looking after your health, vaccination offers peace of mind and long-term protection.
What is the Hepatitis A Vaccine?
Hepatitis A is a viral liver infection that causes inflammation and affects how well your liver functions. It is caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV), which is usually spread through consuming food or water that has been contaminated by faecal matter. This means even a shared meal or a sip of unclean water while travelling can pose a risk.
The symptoms of Hepatitis A can vary in severity. Common signs include:
- Feeling extremely tired
- Nausea
- Stomach discomfort
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- A low-grade fever
Some people may not show symptoms at all, especially young children.
While many people recover completely within a few weeks or months, others—especially older adults or those with pre-existing liver conditions—may experience more serious complications. In these cases, the infection can lead to prolonged illness and require hospital care.
Hepatitis A vs Hepatitis B vs Hepatitis C
Although all three types affect the liver, they differ in how they spread, how serious the illness is, and whether they become long-term conditions.
| Hepatitis Type | Transmission Method | Severity and Duration | Vaccine Available | Risk of Chronic Infection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Contaminated food or water | Causes acute illness only, most recover fully | Yes | No |
| Hepatitis B | Blood, bodily fluids, unprotected sex, mother-to-child | Can be acute or chronic, may lead to liver cancer | Yes | Yes |
| Hepatitis C | Blood (shared needles, past medical procedures) | Often silent, leads to chronic liver disease | No (but curable with treatment) | Yes |
Is the Hepatitis A Vaccine Important?
The Hepatitis A vaccine is important because it helps prevent liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus. This infection can lead to liver inflammation, fatigue, jaundice, and more serious complications in some individuals. Additionally, by providing strong, long-lasting protection, the vaccine plays a key role in reducing the number of Hepatitis A cases and limiting the impact of acute hepatitis in Singapore.
Widespread vaccination also reduces the chance of outbreaks by decreasing the virus’s ability to spread within the community. This not only protects individuals who receive the vaccine but also helps shield vulnerable groups who are more likely to face complications. In this way, getting vaccinated contributes to both personal and public health protection.
Who should get the Hepatitis A Vaccine?
Certain groups face a higher risk of exposure or complications and are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated.
These include:
- Travellers to high-risk areas: If you are heading to countries where Hepatitis A is more common, getting vaccinated beforehand is highly recommended.
- People with chronic liver disease: A Hepatitis A infection can be more dangerous for those with existing liver problems, so protection is essential.
- Individuals in close-contact settings: This includes people who live or work in group environments, such as care facilities, military camps, or childcare centres.
- Food handlers: Because Hepatitis A can be spread through contaminated food, those who work in food preparation or service can benefit from vaccination to protect both themselves and the public.
- Children and adults in outbreak settings: During local outbreaks, public health authorities may recommend the vaccine to contain the spread.
If you fall into any of these categories, it is worth having a conversation with your doctor about getting protected.
When and How Often Should You Get Vaccinated?
The Hepatitis A vaccine is typically given as two doses, with the second dose administered six months after the first. This schedule provides long-term immunity, so it is worth completing the full course even if you miss the second dose timeline by a bit.
In Singapore, the Hepatitis A vaccine is available at many GP clinics including Healthway Medical clinics. If you are unsure whether you have already been vaccinated or need a booster, our doctor can help check your records or suggest a blood test.
What to Expect During and After the Vaccination
Receiving the Hepatitis A vaccine is typically a smooth and simple experience that takes just a few minutes. At the clinic, your clinic assistant or doctor will review your medical history and confirm whether you are suitable for the vaccine. The injection itself is typically given in the upper arm and takes just a few seconds.
After receiving the vaccine, you may be asked to stay at the clinic for a short observation period, usually about 15 minutes, to monitor any immediate reactions. Most people experience only mild side effects, which may include:
- Slight soreness or redness at the injection site
- Feeling a bit tired or fatigued
- Mild headache
- Low-grade fever
- Loss of appetite
These symptoms are normal and usually go away within a day or two.
It is a good idea to drink plenty of fluids and take it easy for the rest of the day if you feel unwell. Severe reactions are extremely rare, but if you have concerns after the vaccination, contact your doctor for advice.
A Simple Step Towards Liver Protection
Vaccination is quick, convenient, and provides lasting peace of mind. Whether you are travelling soon, caring for your health, or simply planning ahead, the Hepatitis A vaccine is a practical choice for safeguarding your liver and well-being.
Book an appointment at your nearest Healthway Medical clinic or speak to our doctor about whether the Hepatitis A vaccine is right for you.
Book Your Vaccination
