Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a viral liver infection that spreads through contaminated food or water. While it’s uncommon in the UK, the virus is much more widespread in parts of Asia, Africa, South America, and the Middle East. If you're heading abroad, protecting yourself with the hepatitis A vaccine in Stevenage is one of the simplest ways to reduce your risk.

At Stevenage Travel Clinic, we provide expert travel health advice and offer the hepatitis A vaccine to help you stay safe while travelling. Whether you’re going away for work, leisure, or humanitarian reasons, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

What Is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious virus that causes inflammation of the liver. It usually spreads through food or water that has been contaminated with human faeces, or through direct contact with someone who’s infected.

The illness is more common in areas with poor sanitation or limited access to clean drinking water. While many people recover within a few weeks, hepatitis A can cause more serious complications, especially in older adults or those with underlying health issues.

Vaccination offers the best protection, particularly for travellers heading to regions where the virus is still active.

Symptoms of Hepatitis A

Symptoms usually appear two to six weeks after infection and can vary in severity. Some people may feel mildly unwell, while others experience symptoms that last for several weeks or even months.

Common signs to look out for include:

• Fatigue and general weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach discomfort or pain
• Diarrhoea
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

Although hepatitis A doesn’t usually lead to long-term liver damage, the recovery can be slow — and the impact on your trip can be significant without proper protection.

How to Prevent Hepatitis A

The most reliable way to prevent hepatitis A is by getting vaccinated before you travel. While the vaccine offers long-term protection, taking a few extra precautions while abroad can further reduce your risk of infection.

Here are some simple ways to stay safe:

• Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating
• Drink bottled, boiled, or purified water in high-risk areas
• Avoid raw or undercooked food, particularly seafood
• Be cautious with street food, especially if hygiene looks questionable
• Peel fruits and vegetables yourself rather than eating them pre-prepared

Even if you’re careful with food and drink, the risk of exposure can be hard to avoid — especially in regions where sanitation is poor. That’s why vaccination is strongly recommended for travellers.

Why the Hepatitis A Vaccine Matters

Hepatitis A may not be life-threatening for most people, but it can cause a long, unpleasant illness that disrupts your plans and puts your health at risk. The vaccine offers peace of mind, especially if you’re visiting parts of the world where the virus is common.

Here’s why getting vaccinated is so important:

• Reduces your risk of getting infected while abroad
• Helps prevent a serious, prolonged illness
• May be required for certain jobs or travel visas
• Offers long-term protection, especially with a booster
• Gives you confidence to enjoy your trip safely

Getting your hepatitis A vaccine in Stevenage is a quick and easy step — and one that can save you a lot of trouble later.

Who Should Get the Hepatitis A Vaccine?

Not everyone needs the hepatitis A vaccine, but it’s highly recommended if you're heading to a country where the virus is common. It’s also a good idea if your job or health status increases your risk.

You may need the vaccine if you:

• Are travelling to parts of Africa, Asia, South America or the Middle East
• Plan to stay with local residents in rural or high-risk areas
• Have a liver condition or weakened immune system
• Work in healthcare, humanitarian aid, or sanitation
• Are a man who has sex with men

If you’re not sure whether you’re at risk, our team can offer tailored advice during your consultation.

How the Vaccine Is Given

The hepatitis A vaccine is straightforward to receive and offers long-term protection when both doses are completed.

Dose 1: gives you short-term protection ahead of travel
Dose 2: the booster, given 6 to 12 months later, provides long-lasting immunity
Injection site: upper arm
Protection lasts: at least 25 years, often for life
Side effects: mild soreness or redness at the injection site is the most common

You can also get a combination vaccine if you need protection against hepatitis B or typhoid at the same time.

Why Choose Stevenage Travel Clinic?

At Stevenage Travel Clinic, we make it easy to get the protection you need before you go. We offer expert advice, flexible appointments, and a reassuring local service trusted by travellers across the area.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Experienced team with specialist travel health knowledge
• Conveniently located in Stevenage with appointment times to suit you
• Personalised guidance based on your travel plans
• A full range of travel vaccines under one roof
• Friendly, professional care from start to finish

We’ll help you feel informed, confident, and ready for your trip.

Ready to Travel Protected? Book Today

Heading abroad soon? Don’t leave it too late to protect yourself. The hepatitis A vaccine in Stevenage is available right here at Stevenage Travel Clinic — and booking couldn’t be easier.

Contact us for friendly advice, pop into the clinic to chat with our team, or book online at a time that works for you. We’re here to help you travel safely and confidently, wherever you’re going.