In response to the statewide hepatitis A outbreak, we have received several questions about hepatitis A vaccination. Below is some information that might be useful as you consider hepatitis A vaccine for yourself:

• The hepatitis A vaccine requires you to get two shots. The second shot is given six months after the first one.
• Children in the US have routinely been vaccinated for hepatitis A since 2006. Adults may have received the vaccine for international travel or other purposes. Those who have not been previously vaccinated can be given the hepatitis A vaccine.
• Persons at increased risk for hepatitis A, and should be vaccinated include:
  • Men who have sex with men
  • People who use illegal drugs (whether or not they are injecting);
  • Travelers to countries where hepatitis A is common
  • People with a chronic liver disease, such as hepatitis B or C
  • People being treated with clotting factor concentrates
  • Laboratory personnel who work with hepatitis A-infected animals
  • Individuals who expect to have contact with international adoptees from a country where hepatitis A is common
  • People experiencing homelessness
  • People who are incarcerated
  • People who have direct contact with an infected person(s).
• Hepatitis A vaccine is available from most health care providers, local pharmacies and retail health clinics. The vaccine is covered under preventive benefits by most insurance companies. Contact your doctor to see if you should get the hepatitis A vaccine.
• Hepatitis A vaccine is available by appointment at Clermont County Public Health (CCPH) for adults and children. CCPH bills most major insurances. People who don’t have health insurance can get the vaccine for free through CCPH. Call 513-735-8400 to make an appointment to get vaccinated.