Vaccinations18 August 2026·5 min read

Hepatitis A vaccination for travel

How destination, food and water exposure shape your risk

Hepatitis A vaccination for travel

Hepatitis A is a liver infection usually spread through contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Risk is higher in places where sanitation and hygiene standards are less reliable.

Who may need hepatitis A vaccination?

Vaccination may be advised for travel to a risk area, especially for longer stays, frequent travel, visits to local communities or trips where access to safe food and water may be limited. Your destination and style of travel matter more than the country name alone.

How can I reduce my risk?

  • Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating
  • Choose freshly cooked food served piping hot
  • Use safe drinking water and avoid ice when water quality is uncertain
  • Take care with raw shellfish, salads and unpeeled fruit

When should I arrange an appointment?

Seek advice as soon as your plans are clear, ideally several weeks before departure. A last-minute assessment is still worthwhile. Our Burton upon Trent clinic will review your itinerary, previous vaccines and medical history before recommending what is appropriate.

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