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Hepatitis A Facts: What You Should Know
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by UHA Health Insurance
Hepatitis A – The Facts
- Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection. See here for a list of the symptoms.
- Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is totally different from other hepatitis illnesses. Most cases are mild, lasting 1 or 2 weeks.
- Hepatitis A does not result in chronic infection – almost everyone recovers fully with lifelong immunity.
Prevention
- Wash hands frequently (HAV is usually transmitted by the fecal-oral route)
- Get vaccinated – Immunization is generally a good idea and is covered 100% by UHA. We encourage vaccination, particularly for members at greatest risk of getting seriously ill from the disease, such as those with underlying liver disease or other serious health problems.
Getting Vaccinated
About the Hepatitis A Vaccine
- The vaccine is given in 2 shots, 6 months apart.
- Protection begins approximately 2 to 4 weeks after the first injection. A second injection results in long-term protection.
- Hepatitis A vaccine will only protect someone from Hepatitis A, not any other form of viral hepatitis (B or C).
Access: No barriers at UHA
- UHA does not require a prescription for the Hepatitis A vaccine.
- Members can get vaccinated at any UHA participating clinic, retail pharmacy within the Express Scripts network (e.g. Walgreens, Longs or Pharmacare) or doctor’s office.
Follow these Simple Steps:
- Search for a UHA-participating pharmacy* at: uhahealth.com/provider-search/
*It is recommended that members call ahead to assure the vaccine is available at a particular clinic or pharmacy before going there. - Show your UHA member ID card at the participating pharmacy.
- Hepatitis A vaccines are covered at $0 co-pay for UHA members.
More Information:
Hawai’i Department of Health
U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Questions?
Please call a UHA representative for further assistance.
