Hepatitis A Vaccine for Children
Hepatitis A and hepatitis B are easy names to mix up when you are looking over a vaccine record. They are listed separately, and a question about one is a good reason to review both with your child's provider.
Understanding Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a liver infection that can spread through close contact or food, drinks, and objects contaminated with tiny amounts of stool from an infected person. Young children may have no symptoms while still passing the infection to others.
For parents, that means a child does not have to look sick for the infection to spread. Vaccination is part of routine childhood protection.
Two Doses, With Time Between Them
The first routine dose is given at 12–23 months, followed by a second at least six months later. Unvaccinated older children and teens also need protection. Some babies ages 6–11 months need a dose before international travel; it does not replace the two routine doses later. The CDC hepatitis A guidance covers these recommendations.
Tell us about upcoming travel when you schedule, even if departure is still months away. If you are unsure about a previous dose, bring the records you have so we can review them.
Questions About Reactions and Timing
Before vaccination, mention severe allergies, a serious reaction to an earlier dose, or a significant current illness. Soreness, fever, tiredness, headache, or reduced appetite can occur afterward. Severe allergic reactions are rare; call 911 for breathing trouble or facial or throat swelling.
If your child may have been exposed to hepatitis A, call promptly. Prevention after exposure is time-sensitive and may include vaccination within two weeks. The vaccine information statement explains safety and exposure guidance.
Keeping the Next Visit Simple
Because the doses are separated by several months, ask for the return date before leaving. Keep that information with your child's vaccine record so it is easy to find when you need it.
Let's Talk About Your Child's Vaccines
You do not need to arrive with every answer. Bring the records you have and the questions on your mind, whether they are about a missed visit, a previous reaction, or what comes next. We can talk through them together.
Contact Castle Valley Children's Clinic in New Castle or Carbondale to plan a visit, or explore our childhood vaccine information.
Sources and Further Reading
Medical information and vaccine timing are based on the CDC Hepatitis A Vaccine Information Statement. Reviewed November 2, 2026.
