Havrix Adult (Hepatitis A Virus (Inactivated ) Adsorbed On Aluminium Hydroxide Hydrated Produced On Human Diploid)

Havrix Adult is indicated for the prevention of hepatitis A infection in adults.

• Primary prophylaxis for hepatitis A in healthy adults.
• Post‑exposure prophylaxis for individuals who have been exposed to hepatitis A virus.
• Immunization of travelers to regions where hepatitis A is endemic.
• Vaccination of individuals with chronic liver disease to reduce risk of severe hepatitis A.
• Use in outbreak settings to control spread of hepatitis A.

The safety profile of Havrix Adult includes both common, generally mild reactions and rare, potentially serious events.

Common

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, usually resolving within a few days.
• Low‑grade fever lasting 24‑48 hours.
• Headache or fatigue that is mild and transient.
• Mild muscle aches affecting the arm or shoulder.
• Nausea or mild gastrointestinal upset occurring shortly after vaccination.
• Temporary joint pain that subsides without treatment.

Serious

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) characterized by difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face and throat.
• Guillain‑Barré syndrome, a rare neurological disorder that may develop weeks after vaccination.
• High fever or seizures, which are very uncommon but require medical attention.
• Thrombocytopenia, an extremely rare drop in platelet count that can cause easy bruising.
• Autoimmune hepatitis, an extremely rare inflammation of the liver observed in isolated cases.

Before administering Havrix Adult, healthcare providers should evaluate several precautionary factors to ensure safe use.

• Known severe allergy to any vaccine component, especially aluminium hydroxide.
• History of severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of hepatitis A vaccine.
• Acute moderate or severe illness at the time of vaccination; defer until recovery.
• Immunocompromised individuals may have a reduced antibody response; vaccination is still recommended but efficacy may be lower.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should discuss potential benefits and risks with a clinician.
• Individuals with chronic liver disease should be vaccinated, but monitor for any adverse events.
• Persons with a bleeding disorder should receive the injection using proper technique to minimize hematoma.

Havrix Adult may interact with certain medications or biologics; awareness of these interactions helps guide safe administration.

Avoid

• Simultaneous administration with other live vaccines (e.g., measles, mumps, rubella) is generally avoided; separate by at least 4 weeks.
• Use of immunoglobulin or blood products within 2 weeks before or after vaccination may reduce vaccine efficacy.

Use with caution

• Antiviral therapy for hepatitis B or C may alter immune response; monitor antibody levels.
• Immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., corticosteroids, biologics) may diminish antibody production; consider timing.
• Pregnancy and lactation: no specific contraindication, but discuss risk/benefit with provider.
• Chronic kidney disease: no dose adjustment needed, but monitor for adverse reactions.