Although no medication can treat HAV symptoms after they develop, the hepatitis A vaccine is the most effective means of preventing hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection. The vaccine provides 94% to 100% protection if you receive both of the shots in the vaccination series.⁵ However, the vaccine may not be as effective in those with weakened immune systems, such as people who have human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).⁵

If you are not protected against HAV infection-either by vaccination or by previous exposure to the virus-and you have had close personal contact with someone who has hepatitis A, you should receive a shot of immune globulin (IG). IG is more than 85% effective in preventing HAV infection if you get it within 2 weeks of being exposed to the virus.⁵

IG is also recommended for:

• People who are known to be allergic to other vaccines containing the same ingredients found in the hepatitis A vaccine.
• Children younger than age 1 who have not been immunized with the hepatitis A vaccine and have been exposed to HAV, particularly children who spend time in day care centers.

Medication Choices

Hepatitis A vaccine

Immune globulin

For more information about the hepatitis A vaccines, see the Prevention section of this topic.

What To Think About

Immune globulin has been effective in controlling some outbreaks of the hepatitis A virus.