PediRounds

Hepatitis A vaccine

Hepatitis A vaccine · IAP

When to giveDose 1 at 12 mo. Inactivated Dose 2 at 18–19 mo (0–6 mo apart). Live-attenuated: single dose only.
DoseInactivated: paediatric 0.5 mL IM / adult 1 mL IM (Havrix 720 EU, Avaxim 80 U, HavShield/HapiBEV/Havisure 25 IU/mL, ≥250 U). Live (H2 strain): 0.5 mL SC, single dose.
RouteIntramuscular (inactivated) / Subcutaneous (live)
SiteAnterolateral thigh / deltoid
Schedule / intervalInactivated: 0 & 6 months (2nd at 18–19 mo). Live: single dose.

Catch-up schedule

Any unvaccinated child ≥12 mo — complete per product schedule (2-dose 0–6 mo for inactivated).

Adverse events (AEFI)

Local soreness; mild fever, headache. Efficacy >95%.

Brands available in India

Inactivated: Havisure (indigenous, HM175), Avaxim-80, Havrix-720, HavShield, HapiBEV, Havpur. Live: BioVac-A

Special considerations

Single dose suffices for live attenuated vaccine; inactivated requires 2 doses. Havisure (India's first indigenous inactivated Hep A, 2-dose 0–6 mo). Live vaccine avoided in pregnancy & immunocompromise. Store 2–8°C, do not freeze.

Common questions

When is the Hepatitis A vaccine given?

Dose 1 at 12 mo. Inactivated Dose 2 at 18–19 mo (0–6 mo apart). Live-attenuated: single dose only.

What is the Hepatitis A vaccine dose and route?

Inactivated: paediatric 0.5 mL IM / adult 1 mL IM (Havrix 720 EU, Avaxim 80 U, HavShield/HapiBEV/Havisure 25 IU/mL, ≥250 U). Live (H2 strain): 0.5 mL SC, single dose. Route: Intramuscular (inactivated) / Subcutaneous (live). Site: Anterolateral thigh / deltoid.

Can the Hepatitis A vaccine be given late?

Any unvaccinated child ≥12 mo — complete per product schedule (2-dose 0–6 mo for inactivated).

What are the side effects of the Hepatitis A vaccine?

Local soreness; mild fever, headache. Efficacy >95%.

Which Hepatitis A vaccine brands are available in India?

Inactivated: Havisure (indigenous, HM175), Avaxim-80, Havrix-720, HavShield, HapiBEV, Havpur. Live: BioVac-A

See the full IAP-ACVIP 2025 immunisation schedule →

About this page

Aligned with the IAP-ACVIP Recommended Immunization Schedule 2025 and compiled from standard paediatric references. Verify against the current product insert, the national schedule and your local protocol.

Spotted something wrong? Report an error on this page — corrections from clinicians are welcome and are reviewed before any change is published.

Last reviewed 2026-08-12.