Hepatitis Vaccines: Types, who should get one, and it's recommended?

Hepatitis sounds like a complicated medical term, but it refers to something quite serious — liver inflammation, usually caused by a virus. The good news is hepatitis A and B, the two most common types in the U.S., are completely preventable through vaccination.

If you’re a parent, a healthcare worker, a frequent traveler, or just someone wanting to stay on top of your health, understanding the hepatitis vaccine is a simple way to protect yourself and those around you.

What is hepatitis?

Hepatitis is a condition where the liver becomes inflamed. While it can have many causes, including alcohol and toxins, the most common forms are viral: hepatitis A, B, and C.

• Hepatitis A is spread mainly through contaminated food or water and poor sanitation.
• Hepatitis B spreads through blood, sexual contact, or from mother to baby at birth.
• Hepatitis C, while serious, doesn’t have a vaccine yet — so this article focuses on A and B, where prevention is within reach.
  

Why does prevention matter? Hepatitis can cause long-term damage to the liver, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. Some people don’t show symptoms right away, making it easy to spread unknowingly.

Types of hepatitis vaccines

There are several vaccines available to help protect against hepatitis A and B. Here's a breakdown of the types of hepatitis vaccine options:

Hepatitis A vaccine (Havrix, Vaqta)

• Protects against the hepatitis A virus.
• Given in two doses at least six months apart.
• Commonly recommended for travelers and children over 12 months.

Hepatitis B vaccine (Engerix-B, Recombivax HB)

• Protects against hepatitis B, which is more likely to become chronic.
• Typically given as a 2 or 3-dose series, depending on the brand and age.

Combination vaccine (Twinrix)

• Protects against both hepatitis A and B.
• Given in 3 doses over six months—this is a great option for adults who need both.

Who should get the hepatitis A vaccine?

Not everyone automatically gets this vaccine, but certain groups should absolutely consider it. According to CDC guidelines, you should get the hepatitis A vaccine if you are:

• A child aged 12–23 months
• Traveling to countries with higher rates of hepatitis A
• Living with chronic liver disease
• A man who has sex with men
• Using recreational drugs (injection or non-injection)
• Experiencing homelessness
• Working in labs or handling the virus directly
  

Because hepatitis A spreads easily through contaminated food or water, this vaccine is especially important for anyone traveling internationally or working in food service or public health.

Who should get the hepatitis b vaccine?

The hepatitis B vaccine is part of the standard vaccination schedule for infants, but it's also recommended for a range of other people:

• All newborns, starting at birth
• Unvaccinated children and teens

Additionally, adults who:

• Have multiple sexual partners
• Have a partner with hepatitis B
• Inject drugs
• Work in healthcare or public safety
• Live with someone who has hepatitis B
• Have chronic liver or kidney disease
• Are on dialysis
• Are HIV-positive
• Are pregnant and not yet vaccinated
  

Hepatitis B can lead to a lifelong infection for which anti-viral treatment does not always cause remission. Therefore, prevention through vaccination is key.

Vaccine schedules and when doctors recommend them

Getting the hepatitis A vaccine

The hepatitis A vaccine schedule is a simple 2-dose series. You can get the first dose at any time, and then the second dose is given 6 months later. While you’ll start building protection a few weeks after that first shot, it’s the second dose that really locks in long-term immunity. This two-step approach helps your body develop strong, lasting protection against the hepatitis A virus.

Getting the hepatitis B vaccine

The hepatitis B vaccine is typically given as a 3-dose series. The first dose can be given at any time, followed by the second dose one month later, and the third dose six months after the first. This schedule helps your body build strong, long-lasting protection against the virus. In some cases, newer versions of the vaccine are available that only require two doses given over a one-month period, offering a quicker path to full immunity.

Getting both hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccines

The Twinrix vaccine, which protects against both hepatitis A and B, is given in a series of three doses over six months. It’s a convenient option, especially for travelers or adults who are behind on getting either or both hepatitis A and B vaccines. Combining both into a single series gives Twinrix a simple and effective way to stay protected.

Catching up on missed or delayed vaccinations

If you or your child missed earlier hepatitis vaccine doses, don’t worry — doctors often provide catch-up schedules to help you get back on track. For those planning to travel to areas where hepatitis A or B is more common, healthcare providers may recommend an accelerated dosing schedule to ensure you're protected before your trip. These flexible options help make sure everyone can stay safe, even if they’re starting late.

Where to get a hepatitis vaccine

Luckily, it’s pretty easy to find hepatitis vaccines near you. Common places include:

• Urgent care centers
• Travel clinics
• Primary care doctor’s office
• Local health departments
• Pharmacies (like CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid)
  

Most insurance plans cover this vaccination anywhere you choose to go. If you’re unsure where to go, Solv makes it easy to find and book a provider offering hepatitis vaccines near you!

Side effects and what to expect after vaccination

The hepatitis vaccine is generally safe and well-tolerated. Most people have no issues beyond mild symptoms.

Common side effects include:

• Sore arm at the injection site
• Mild fever
• Fatigue or headache
• Loss of appetite (rare)
  

Severe allergic reactions are very rare, but if you experience trouble breathing or swelling of the face or throat, seek medical attention right away.

Find a hepatitis vaccine near you

The bottom line? Getting vaccinated for hepatitis A and B is a simple, powerful step in protecting your health. It’s especially important if you’re:

• Planning a trip abroad
• Working in healthcare
• Pregnant and unvaccinated
• Part of any other at-risk group
  
  

Need to get started or check your vaccine status? Solv can help you find a local provider, check availability, and book your appointment today—all in just a few clicks.