Introduction
Hepatitis B and hepatitis A are viruses that attack the liver. The combination hepatitis A and B vaccine provides immunity for at least 10 years and likely for a lifetime when completing the full series. There are currently no recommendations for a healthy person to receive boosters of this combination vaccine if they have completed the full series.
Why It Is Used
This combination vaccine can prevent both hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection with only one series of injections. People get the vaccines together rather than separately. The Public Health Agency of Canada has approved its use only for people who are at risk for infection with HAV and HBV. These include people who:
- Will travel to areas with moderate to high rates of HAV and HBV. These include Africa, the Caribbean, Central America, South America, Mexico, South and Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, Southern Europe, and the former Soviet Union.
- Have long-term (chronic) liver disease.
- Use illegal injectable drugs.
- Have anal contact with a sex partner.
- Work in occupations that expose them to viruses, such as some lab workers, people who provide emergency medical assistance, and daycare providers.
- Have clotting factor disorders and receive blood products.