Written by

Kristen Cramer

February 21, 2025

Edited by

Tara Farmer

Fact-checked by

Jennifer Carlson

Average cost of Hepatitis A vaccine

The Hepatitis A vaccine costs $170 to $230 on average without insurance for the complete 2-dose series of injections. Most health insurance plans cover Hepatitis A vaccination. The vaccine is available through pharmacies, doctors' offices, local health departments, and travel immunization companies.

The Hepatitis A vaccine is also available as part of a combination Hepatitis A & B vaccine called Twinrix, which costs $400 to $500 total without insurance for the full 3-dose series.

What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). This viral infection affects the liver's ability to function properly, leading to inflammation and potential liver damage.

While most people who contract hepatitis A recover completely within two to three months, the illness can cause severe symptoms and, in rare cases, lead to serious complications.

Common symptoms of Hepatitis A

The symptoms of hepatitis A typically develop between 2 and 6 weeks after exposure to the virus. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue and general weakness

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal pain, especially in the liver area

• Loss of appetite

• Low-grade fever

• Dark urine

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

• Clay-colored bowel movements

• Joint pain

How do you get Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route. This means the virus spreads when an uninfected person ingests food or water contaminated with feces from an infected person. The virus is extremely contagious and can spread easily through:

• Consuming contaminated food or drinks

• Close personal contact with an infected person

• Eating raw or undercooked shellfish from contaminated waters

• Sexual contact with an infected person

• Touching contaminated objects and then touching your mouth

The Hepatitis A virus can survive outside the body for several months, making proper hygiene and sanitation crucial for prevention.

Is Hepatitis A curable?

While there is no specific cure for Hepatitis A, the infection usually resolves on its own. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms with over-the-counter medications and supporting the body's natural recovery process with rest, hydration, and avoiding alcohol.

Most people recover completely within six months and develop lifelong immunity against the Hepatitis A virus.

Hepatitis A vaccine schedule

The Hepatitis A vaccine is typically administered in two doses, with the second dose given 6 to 18 months after the first:

• All children should receive their first dose at 12 to 23 months of age and their second dose 6 to 18 months later.

• All children aged 2 through 18 years who were not previously vaccinated should be vaccinated with their first dose at the earliest available opportunity, receiving their second dose 6 to 18 months later.

• Adults who are at risk for Hepatitis A should receive the adult formulation of the two-dose vaccine series, with the second dose given 12 to 18 months after the first.

Do I need a Hepatitis A vaccine?

The CDC recommends Hepatitis A vaccination for the following people:

• All children starting at 12 to 23 months

• All children aged 2 through 18 years old who were not previously vaccinated

• Infants 6 through 11 months old who are traveling outside the United States

• International travelers, at least 2 to 4 weeks before departure

• Men who have sexual contact with other men

• People with chronic liver disease

• People infected with HIV

• People experiencing homelessness or living in a shelter

• People who use injectable or non-injectable illicit drugs

• People with occupational risk for Hepatitis A, such as those who work with HAV-infected primates

• People who anticipate having close contact with an international adoptee from a country with intermediate or high levels of Hepatitis A infection

Any unvaccinated person who has contact with someone with Hepatitis A should receive the Hepatitis A vaccine as soon as possible within two weeks after exposure.

Hepatitis A vaccine FAQs

How long does the vaccine for Hepatitis A last?

The hepatitis A vaccine provides long-term protection. Research indicates that protection lasts for at least 15 to 20 years in healthy individuals who complete the two-dose series. Some studies suggest the protection may be lifelong, but more research is needed to confirm this.

What are the Hepatitis A vaccine side effects?

The Hepatitis A vaccine is generally safe and well-tolerated. Common side effects are typically mild and may include:

• Soreness or tenderness at the injection site

• Low-grade fever

• Mild headache

• Fatigue

• Loss of appetite

These side effects usually resolve within a few days. Serious side effects are extremely rare.

Is the Hepatitis A vaccine a live vaccine?

No, the Hepatitis A vaccine is not a live vaccine. It contains an inactivated (killed) virus and cannot cause a Hepatitis A infection.

Where to get the Hepatitis A vaccine

You can get a Hepatitis A vaccine from these providers:

• Community health clinics

• Local health departments

• Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens

• Travel immunization companies

• Your doctor's office

The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program provides free Hepatitis A vaccination for eligible children ages 18 and younger who are uninsured, underinsured, Medicaid-eligible or Medicaid-enrolled, or American Indian or Alaska Native. Many local health departments also offer discounted Hepatitis A vaccines for uninsured and underinsured individuals.