Do I need to get both the live attenuated hepatitis A vaccine and the inactivated hepatitis A vaccine?

Hepatitis A attenuated live vaccine and hepatitis A inactivated vaccine are not both necessary—only one of them needs to be administered according to the recommended schedule to achieve effective protection. The specific choice should be made based on age and health status, under professional guidance.

The hepatitis A attenuated live vaccine contains a weakened strain of the virus, simulating natural infection after vaccination to stimulate immune response, typically requiring only a single dose. This vaccine provides long-lasting immunity and is suitable for healthy children over 18 months of age and adults. It enables the body to produce long-term antibodies on its own. However, individuals with compromised immune systems should avoid this vaccine due to potential risks.

The hepatitis A inactivated vaccine is made from killed virus and has a higher safety profile, requiring two doses. As it contains no live virus, it can be safely administered to special populations such as those with weakened immunity, pregnant women, and chronic disease patients. It induces a stable immune response with more predictable antibody production, making it ideal for individuals concerned about the live attenuated vaccine.

In daily life, maintaining good food hygiene is essential: avoid raw, cold, or unclean food, drink boiled water, and prevent oral transmission of the hepatitis A virus. After vaccination, keep the injection site clean and dry, and avoid strenuous exercise to help the body establish an immune barrier smoothly.