Hepatitis A Vaccination at Coolangatta Medical Centre
At Coolangatta Medical Centre in Gold Coast, we work with you to ensure we address all your health needs and concerns including preventative methods such as hepatitis A vaccines to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy.
What is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is a disease caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV) which creates inflammation of the liver that can lead to mild or severe illness. Learn more about the disease, its causes, and differences from other hepatitis types (like hepatitis B), and why getting vaccinations can help keep everyone safe.
Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). It infects the body’s liver cells that leads to inflammation, and affects how your liver works, causing other symptoms. Virus transmission occurs when an uninfected (and unvaccinated) person has ingested contaminated food and water, inadequate sanitation, poor personal hygiene, or has direct contact with an infectious person.
What are the symptoms?
The incubation period of hepatitis A can span between 14–28 days after contracting the virus. Between those two to five weeks, symptoms will begin to appear, as the virus replicates in your body. When the virus has replicated enough to register as a threat to your immune system, your body will begin attacking it causing between mild to severe symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Malaise
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhoea
- Itchy skin
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal discomfort
- Dark-coloured urine
- Jaundice
The symptoms can last as long as it takes for your immune system to get rid of the virus. It takes at least a few weeks.1 Most people can recover within two months. However in a few cases, some people can also experience symptoms up to 6 months and even have a relapse after recovery. Fortunately, hepatitis A does not lead to any long-term health complications.
or
Call (07) 5599 1400
More About Us!
Clinic Hours:
- Monday – Friday 8:30am – 5pm
- Saturday 8:30am – 2.30pm
- Sunday 9:00am – 12.00pm
- Public Holidays – Please call the centre for more information.
Email us: office@coolmedical.com.au
Find us at 91 Griffith Street, Coolangatta, QLD
Why is the Hepatitis A Vaccine Important in Australia?
The hepatitis A virus (HAV) is one of the most common vaccine-preventable infections acquired during travel.2 Travel-related cases of hepatitis A can occur in travellers who are visiting developed as well as developing countries who even have standard tourist accommodations, eating behaviours, and itineraries.
For both travellers and certain populations in Australia, the risk is even greater for those who live in or visit rural areas, trek in backcountry areas, or frequently eat or drink within environments with poor sanitation.
Hepatitis A is contagious and can be transmitted through ingesting contaminated food and water or through direct contact with an infectious person. Getting the hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect you from the disease. It not only ensures your safety and well-being, but is also an act of travelling responsibly to prevent outbreaks in communities and countries during your visit.
Hepatitis A vs. Hepatitis B: Understanding the Difference
Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B are two different types of viral hepatitis. Hepatitis B, caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV), is another viral infection that affects the liver. Knowing the differences can help your healthcare professional better assess which type of hepatitis you may have to better manage symptoms.
Coolangatta Medical Centre: Your Source for Hepatitis A Vaccination
Coolangatta Medical Centre is your trusted healthcare provider for hepatitis A vaccinations in Gold Coast, Australia. Our team of experienced doctors offers many holistic health services and specialises in travel medicine, ensuring you receive comprehensive care and advice for your next trip. From expert guidance and vaccination services, trust us to safeguard your health and offer consultation that’s tailored to your health needs.
Hepatitis Type |
A |
B |
|
Transmission methods |
|
|
|
Symptoms |
|
|
|
Vaccination schedules |
For infants (2-dose series): Starting from 1 year of age or older, followed by a second shot between 6 to 18 months after the first dose. For adults (2-dose series): Depending on the brand of vaccine, adults can get their shot at 0 and 6 to 12 months (Havrix), or 0 and 6 to 18 months (Vaqta). |
The hepatitis B vaccine is usually given as 2, 3, or 4* shots. For infants: First dose at birth followed by a second dose at 6–18 months of age. For adults: The vaccine is given in 3 doses. After the first dose, a second dose is given 1 month later. This is followed by a third dose 6 months after the second dose. *Consult with your healthcare professional if you require a 4th dose for added protection. |
|
Long-term effects |
No long-term health effects |
Cirrhosis (permanent liver damage) |
Our Team of Doctors
Our team of Travel Doctors in Gold Coast share their expertise in vaccinations required by law for entry to a country as well as the specific precautions needed and the vaccinations recommended for general protection against diseases. Always seek medical advice from travel doctors at least a month before your trip to learn more about the necessary vaccinations required before visiting your destination.
Dr Mary McDevitt
Dr Kerrie Davis
Dr Michaelia Verbeek
Dr Russell O’Brien
Areas We Serve
Coolangatta Medical Centre offers a comprehensive range of hepatitis A vaccines in the following areas in Gold Coast, Australia:
- Tweed Heads
- Tweed Heads South
- Tweed Heads West
- Bilinga
- Cobaki Lakes
- Tugun
Other Medical Services We Offer:
Apart from drug and alcohol screening procedures, Coolangatta Medical Centre offers a spectrum of specialised services designed to ensure your holistic wellness. From preventive care to advanced diagnostics, our commitment to your health knows no bounds.
Payment Methods:
Full fee upfront is payable on the day of your appointment and will be processed with a credit/debit card token provided at the time of booking.
Medicare rebate is processed for you on your behalf by the administration team and will go back into the account that you have nominated with Medicare within 24 to 48 hours. For more information about Medicare rebates, see our FAQs page.
Out of pocket fee is the amount of money that you will be out of pocket after Medicare has processed your rebate.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Common Questions about Hepatitis A & Vaccines)
Am I contagious even if there are no symptoms yet?
Yes. You can be contagious for up to two weeks even before symptoms develop and when they begin. In some cases, people, most especially children, may never develop symptoms, but can still spread the virus. The virus may even survive on surfaces in your environment after your symptoms have cleared.
Can I prevent Hepatitis A infection after exposure?
Yes. In the event, you think you may have been exposed to hepatitis A, consult with your healthcare provider. You can help prevent the infection by getting vaccinated within two weeks of exposure. While it takes two-to-three doses to be fully vaccinated, one dose immediately after exposure may prevent infection.
Who should get the Hepatitis A vaccine?
The hepatitis A vaccine should be given to the following groups of people: children who are 1 year of age and older, travellers visiting countries with moderate or high cases of hepatitis A, and those in close contact with individuals with hepatitis A.
Are there any side effects from the Hepatitis A vaccine?
While the hepatitis A vaccine is made from an inactive hepatitis A virus (HAV), it is safe and with very little side effects. The most common potential side effect is soreness at or around the site of the injection. Other side effects include a mild headache, loss of appetite among children, and fatigue.
Where can I get the Hepatitis A vaccine?
You may get the hepatitis A vaccine at your local vaccination clinic. You can also request this from your healthcare provider, pharmacy, or travel clinic especially if you are encouraged or required to get it as a travel vaccine when visiting areas outside Australia with prevalent cases of hepatitis A.
How much does the Hepatitis A vaccine cost?
Vaccine cost can vary depending on the brand as well as the clinic you will be receiving the hepatitis A vaccine from.
