This is a condition where the liver is inflamed, and there are a variety of causes, including viruses, bacteria, and drugs.
Hepatitis A
This is caused by the hepatitis A virus and is spread by contact with stool, and consequently it can be spread by contaminated food/items or by contact with an infected person. Symptoms include fever, tiredness, nausea or vomiting, yellow eyes/skin, dark urine, or light-colored stool and can last from 2-6 months. There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A, and some people need to be hospitalized.
Hepatitis B
This is caused by the hepatitis B virus, and it is spread by contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood or semen. Symptoms are similar to those of hepatitis A. It can last anywhere from a few months to the rest of someone’s life. When the infection lasts for years, hepatitis B can cause liver damage, liver cancer, or death.
Vaccines to help prevent hepatitis A and hepatitis B
There are three vaccines to help prevent hepatitis. Havrix® hepatitis A vaccine requires two shots, Engerix-B® hepatitis B vaccine, and Twinrix® hepatitis A & B vaccine.
Havrix®
Havrix® (prevents hepatitis A) requires two shots. The second one is recommended six months after the first shot. For people who are traveling to countries where hepatitis A is common, it is a good idea to get the shot.
Engerix-B® (hepatitis B vaccine) is normally given as a series of three shots. The second shot is one month after the first shot, and the third shot is six months after the first shot. It is recommended for people who are at risk for catching it, such as healthcare workers or people who have weak immune systems.
Twinrix® ( hepatitis A and B vaccine) is usually given with the same schedule as Engerix-B®. Ask your Bartell Drugs pharmacist for more details.
Bartell Drugs’ locations offering this vaccine:
