The Side Effects of Hepatitis A Shots

Hepatitis A is the result of a viral infection that causes an inflamed liver. It is contagious and can be contracted from an infected sexual partner or by coming into contacted with infected feces. Symptoms of this disease can include jaundice, dark urine and stomach pain. There are hepatitis A shots available to prevent you from contracting the disease. However, there can be a few minor side effects associated with these shots.

Pain

• Pain is a mild side effect of the hepatitis A vaccine. Pain can occur where the shot was given and should go away in a few hours. However, you may experience more significant pain if the person administering the vaccine is not very experienced.

Headaches

• Headaches can also be a mild side effect from the hepatitis A shot. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, one out of six adults experiences headaches from the shot. Only one out of 25 children suffers from this side effect.

Loss of Appetite

• People can also experience loss of appetite from the hepatitis A vaccine. The Department of Health and Human Services reports that this occurs in one out of 12 children. Loss of appetite isn’t serious and should subside in a day or two.

Fatigue

• This vaccine also can cause people to become tired or sluggish, a side effect that occurs in one out of 14 adults. It should disappear in a few days.

Allergic Reaction

• You can be allergic to the hepatitis A vaccine, and that's when the most serious side effects can occur. If you are allergic to the shot, within hours you will likely experience severe symptoms such as high fever, hives and difficulty breathing. Of course you should seek medical attention immediately, but this side effect is rare.