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

Havrix is indicated for the prevention of hepatitis A infection in individuals who are at risk of exposure.

• Adults and adolescents 12 months and older who have not been previously immunised against hepatitis A.
• Travelers to regions where hepatitis A is endemic or where outbreaks occur.
• Persons with occupational exposure to hepatitis A virus, such as laboratory workers.
• Individuals with chronic liver disease who require protection against hepatitis A.
• Close contacts of patients with confirmed hepatitis A infection.

The safety profile of Havrix reflects the typical reactions observed with inactivated viral vaccines.

Common

• Mild pain, redness or swelling at the injection site.
• Low‑grade fever.
• Headache.
• Fatigue or general feeling of being unwell.

Serious

• Allergic reactions such as urticaria, angioedema or anaphylaxis.
• Neurologic events including Guillain‑Barré syndrome (very rare).

Healthcare providers should consider several precautionary factors before administering Havrix to ensure safe and effective immunisation.

• Known severe allergy to any component of the vaccine, including aluminium salts.
• History of anaphylactic reaction to a previous dose of Havrix.
• Acute moderate or severe illness at the time of vaccination.
• Pregnancy status is unknown; vaccination should be based on risk‑benefit assessment.
• Immunocompromised individuals may have a reduced antibody response.
• Children under 12 months are not approved for this vaccine.

Havrix does not have extensive drug‑drug interaction data, but certain agents may influence its immunogenicity or safety.

Avoid

• Concurrent administration of other live vaccines (e.g., measles, mumps, rubella) in the same syringe or injection site.
• Use of immunoglobulin products within 2 weeks before or after vaccination, which may interfere with antibody development.

Use with caution

• Immunosuppressive therapy (e.g., corticosteroids, chemotherapy) may reduce vaccine efficacy.
• Antipyretics such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be taken to manage mild post‑vaccination symptoms, but routine prophylactic use may blunt the immune response.
• Blood products or plasma containing hepatitis A antibodies administered shortly before or after vaccination.