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

Havrix is indicated for the active immunisation against hepatitis A virus infection.

• Provides primary prevention for travelers to endemic regions and individuals with occupational exposure.
• Included in routine childhood vaccination schedules for children aged one year and older.
• Can be used in outbreak control to quickly immunise at‑risk populations.
• Recommended for persons with chronic liver disease to reduce severe hepatitis A outcomes.
• May be administered to individuals with clotting factor disorders when intramuscular injection is appropriate.
• Used as part of pre‑exposure prophylaxis for people living in areas with high hepatitis A incidence.

Common and serious adverse reactions have been reported following Havrix administration, most of which are mild and self‑limiting.

Common

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site lasting 1–3 days.
• Mild fever or chills occurring within 24 hours after vaccination.
• Headache, fatigue, or muscle aches that resolve spontaneously.
• Nausea or loss of appetite for a short duration.
• Transient joint pain or arthralgia reported in a small number of recipients.

Serious

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) with difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face.
• High fever (>39°C) persisting beyond 48 hours.
• Neurological events such as Guillain‑Barré syndrome, though extremely rare.
• Severe rash or urticaria requiring medical attention.
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours.

Before administering Havrix, healthcare providers should evaluate patient history and consider specific safety precautions.

• Do not vaccinate individuals with a known severe allergy to any vaccine component, including aluminium hydroxide.
• Postpone vaccination in persons experiencing an acute febrile illness until recovery.
• Use with caution in immunocompromised patients, as response may be reduced.
• Pregnancy and lactation status should be assessed; benefits must outweigh potential risks.
• Children under one year of age are not eligible for this vaccine.
• Patients with clotting disorders should receive the injection using a subcutaneous route if intramuscular is contraindicated.

Havrix may interact with other vaccines or biologic products; certain combinations should be avoided or used with caution.

Avoid

• Live attenuated vaccines administered within 4 weeks before or after Havrix.
• Immunoglobulin or blood products given within 2 weeks of vaccination.
• Concurrent administration of other inactivated vaccines without proper spacing.
• Administration of other hepatitis vaccines (e.g., hepatitis B) on the same day is not recommended.

Use with caution

• Immunosuppressive therapy, including corticosteroids, may diminish vaccine efficacy.
• Pregnancy, as safety data are limited; risk‑benefit assessment required.
• Chronic liver disease patients may need closer monitoring after vaccination.
• Individuals with autoimmune disorders should be evaluated before immunisation.