What is the inactivated hepatitis A vaccine?
Every newborn baby routinely receives vaccinations to prevent disease, and the hepatitis A vaccine is one of many such vaccines. So, what exactly is the inactivated hepatitis A vaccine?
What Is the Inactivated Hepatitis A Vaccine?
There are two types of hepatitis A vaccines: the inactivated vaccine—commonly used abroad—and the live attenuated vaccine. The inactivated vaccine contains hepatitis A virus particles that have been completely inactivated (rendered non-infectious) while retaining their antigenicity, thereby stimulating the body to produce protective antibodies. In contrast, domestically produced live attenuated hepatitis A vaccines provide superior protection compared with inactivated vaccines; thus, they are more commonly used in China.

After receiving the hepatitis A vaccine, the human body produces hepatitis A antibodies—proteins capable of neutralizing the hepatitis A virus via the immune system, thereby protecting the individual from infection and conferring long-lasting immunity. During outbreaks of hepatitis A, individuals who have had close contact with infected patients should receive the hepatitis A vaccine. It is advisable to visit a specialized hospital and consult a physician to determine whether any contraindications exist for vaccination—or whether current health conditions render vaccination inadvisable.

Prior to vaccination, individuals should proactively inform the administering healthcare provider about their current health status, medical history, family history, and allergy history to determine eligibility for receiving the inactivated hepatitis A vaccine. After vaccination, recipients must remain under observation at the clinic or hospital for at least 30 minutes. Should symptoms such as high fever or allergic reactions occur, medical staff should be notified immediately. We hope this information has been helpful!