Havrix (Hepatitis A Virus (Inactivated), Algeldrate)

Havrix is indicated for the prevention of hepatitis A infection in individuals who have not been previously immunized.

• Primary prophylaxis for travelers to endemic areas.
• Routine immunization of children according to national schedules.
• Post‑exposure prophylaxis for close contacts of confirmed cases.
• Immunization of individuals with chronic liver disease.
• Use in outbreak control settings as recommended by public health authorities.
• Administration to persons with occupational risk (e.g., laboratory workers handling hepatitis A virus).

Following intramuscular injection, Havrix may be associated with transient local and systemic reactions.

Common

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
• Low‑grade fever.
• Headache.
• Fatigue or mild malaise.
• Nausea.
• Muscle aches.
• Local itching.

Serious

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).
• Guillain‑Barré syndrome (rare).
• High fever with chills.
• Persistent joint pain.
• Neurological symptoms such as weakness.
• Severe rash.

Healthcare providers should assess individual risk factors and medical history before administering Havrix.

• Defer vaccination in persons with known severe allergy to any vaccine component.
• Evaluate immunocompromised patients, as response may be reduced.
• Consider timing of other vaccines; separate administration by at least 4 weeks when possible.
• Counsel pregnant or breastfeeding women; data are limited, so use only if benefits outweigh risks.
• Monitor for immediate hypersensitivity reactions for at least 15 minutes after injection.
• Document prior hepatitis A vaccination to avoid unnecessary repeat dosing.

Havrix generally has a low potential for drug interactions, but certain circumstances warrant caution.

Avoid

• Concomitant administration of other injectable vaccines containing live attenuated viruses (e.g., measles, mumps, rubella) in the same syringe.

Use with caution

• Simultaneous receipt of other inactivated vaccines (e.g., influenza) may increase local reactogenicity.
• Immunoglobulin or blood products given within 2 weeks before or after vaccination may diminish immune response.
• Antihistamines may mask early signs of an allergic reaction.
• Corticosteroid therapy may reduce vaccine efficacy.