Use of Hepatitis A Vaccine
Hepatitis A vaccine has been used for over a decade to prevent infection when given prior to exposure to hepatitis A virus. It has recently been found to be effective among certain populations in post-exposure situations as described above. In addition, IG plus hepatitis A vaccine should be considered in settings where exposed, unvaccinated persons are considered at increased risk for ongoing exposure to hepatitis A virus, and for individuals for whom vaccination is routinely recommended.
Basic Information
Hepatitis A vaccines licensed for use in the United States are HAVRIX and VAQTA. Both are highly effective inactivated vaccines, prepared by methods similar to those used for inactivated poliovirus vaccine. Cell-culture-adapted virus is propagated in human fibroblasts, purified from cell lysates by ultrafiltration and exclusion gel chromatography or other methods, formalin inactivated, and adsorbed to an aluminum hydroxide adjuvant. HAVRIX is preserved with 2-phenoxyethanol, and VAQTA does not contain a preservative.
Hepatitis A vaccine should be refrigerated at 35.6 F (2 C) - 46.4 F (8 C) during