How can I protect myself?

You can get the hepatitis A vaccine.

Vaccines protect you from getting hepatitis A.A vaccine is a drug that you take when you are healthy that keeps you from getting sick. Vaccines teach your body to attack certain viruses, like the hepatitis A virus.

The hepatitis A vaccine is given through a shot. Children can get the vaccine after they turn 2 years old. Children aged 2 to 18 will need three shots. The shots are spread out over a year. Adults get two or three shots over 6 to 12 months.

You need all of the shots to be protected. If you miss a shot, call your doctor or clinic right away to set up a new appointment.





You can protect yourself and others from hepatitis A in these ways, too:
Wash hands to protect yourself.
  • Always wash your hands after using the toilet and before fixing food or eating.
  • Wear gloves if you have to touch other people's stool. Wash your hands afterwards.
  • Drink bottled water when you are in another country. (And don't use ice cubes or wash fruits and vegetables in tap water.)