Hepatitis Vaccinations

There is a vaccine for Hepatitis A and B and the DC Department of Health encourages District residents to get vaccinated. Consult your medical provider to get more information or click here to find help.

The Hepatitis A vaccine is considered to be effective for 15 to 20 years and immunization is recommended for:

children
adults
injecting drugs users
restaurant workers
residents of communities with high rates of hepatitis
child-care workers
people engaging in anal/oral sex
people with chronic liver disease
health care workers, and
individuals travelling abroad to developing countries.

Adopting healthy and hygienic behavior such as washing of hands regularly are also ways to prevent Hepatitis A.

The Hepatitis B vaccine is also considered to be effective for over 15 years. Vaccination is recommended for:

all newborns
individuals up to 18 years of age
all adults participating in risky behaviors for infection (injecting drug users, healthcare workers, etc).

Practicing safer sex, not sharing drug paraphernalia and handling blood spills correctly with latex gloves and a 10% solution of household bleach are also ways to prevent Hepatitis B transmission.

Unfortunately there is no vaccine for Hepatitis C. Individuals infected with Hepatitis C should request both Hepatitis A and B vaccinations. Practicing safer sex, not sharing drug paraphernalia and handling blood spills correctly with latex gloves and a 10% solution of household bleach are also ways to prevent Hepatitis C transmission.

Talk to your doctor to see how you can prevent Hepatitis and protect your health.

If you don't have a health care provider you can visit the location listed below.