The best way to prevent hepatitis A is to be vaccinated. Two HAV vaccines are available: Havrix® and VAQTA®. Both of these vaccines require two injections, usually administered six months apart. If side effects from the hepatitis A vaccine occur, they are usually mild and may include soreness at the injection site and mild flu-like symptoms. A combination vaccine for HAV and hepatitis B virus (Twinrix®) is also available.
The HAV vaccine is very effective. More than 99% of people who are vaccinated develop immunity against the virus and will never get HAV even if they are exposed to it. There is some concern that people with HIV with suppressed immune systems are less likely to benefit from the vaccine, so it is best to get the vaccine when T-cell counts are within healthy ranges.
If you do not think you were ever infected with hepatitis A, talk to your healthcare provider about the vaccine. Because people with HIV often experience worse symptoms of HAV infection and the liver plays such an important role in breaking down anti-HIV medications, the hepatitis A vaccine is strongly recommended for people with HIV. Getting vaccinated is especially important for people who are also infected with hepatitis B or hepatitis C.
Even if you haven't been vaccinated against hepatitis A, there are things you can do to prevent HAV infection:
- Avoid water that could be contaminated with fecal matter.
- Avoid undercooked or raw shellfish.
- Always wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom, changing a diaper, and before preparing and eating food.
- Use a latex barrier – such as a dental dam – for oral-anal sex ("rimming").
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