Hepatitis A and B are serious viral infections that affect the liver, causing inflammation and damage to liver cells. These infections are transmitted through contaminated food and water, blood and bodily fluids, and sexual contact. Thankfully, there are vaccines available to protect against hepatitis A and B infections. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of hepatitis A and B vaccinations.
HEPATITIS A VACCINATION
Hepatitis A is a highly contagious virus that is spread through contaminated food and water or close contact with an infected person. The virus causes inflammation of the liver and symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it can lead to liver failure, which can be fatal. However, vaccination can prevent hepatitis A infection and its complications. Here are some benefits of hepatitis A vaccination.
- Prevents Hepatitis A Infection
Hepatitis A infection can be prevented using the hepatitis A vaccine quite effectively. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the vaccine is up to 99% effective at preventing the virus after two doses. The vaccine works by triggering an immune response in the body, producing antibodies that fight off the virus if the person is exposed to it in the future. By getting vaccinated, you can protect yourself from hepatitis A infection and its complications. - Provides Long-Term Protection
Hepatitis A vaccination provides long-term protection against the virus. According to the CDC, the vaccine can provide immunity for up to 20 years or more after the initial dose. This means that once you are vaccinated, you are protected against hepatitis A for a long time, possibly for life. - Prevents the Spread of Hepatitis A
Getting vaccinated against hepatitis A not only protects you from the virus but also helps prevent its spread. By reducing the number of people who are susceptible to the virus, the vaccine can help stop outbreaks from occurring. This is particularly important in settings such as schools, daycares, and healthcare facilities, where the virus can spread quickly.
HEPATITIS B VACCINATION
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver, causing inflammation and damage to liver cells. It is spread through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids, such as through sexual contact or sharing needles. The virus can cause chronic liver disease and increase the risk of liver cancer. However, vaccination can prevent hepatitis B infection and its complications. Here are some benefits of hepatitis B vaccination.
- Prevents Hepatitis B Infection
Hepatitis B infection can be prevented using the hepatitis B vaccine quite effectively. According to the CDC, the vaccine is 95% effective at preventing infection after three doses. Getting vaccinated triggers an immune response in the body, resulting in the production of antibodies that fight against the virus if the person is exposed to it in the future. This ultimately protects individuals from hepatitis B infection and its associated complications. - Provides Long-Term Protection
Hepatitis B vaccination provides long-term protection against the virus. According to the CDC, the vaccine can provide immunity for at least 20 years after the initial dose. This means that once you are vaccinated, you are protected against hepatitis B for a long time, possibly for life. - Prevents Chronic Liver Disease
Chronic liver disease is a serious complication of hepatitis B infection. It occurs when the virus remains in the body for a long time and causes ongoing inflammation and damage to the liver. Over time, chronic liver disease can lead to cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and liver cancer. However, hepatitis B vaccination can prevent chronic liver disease by preventing infection with the virus. - Prevents Liver Cancer
The most common cause of liver cancer is hepatitis B infection. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 780,000 people die each year from liver cancer, and hepatitis B is responsible for up to 50% of these deaths.
Make an appointment with Specialty Care Clinics to protect yourself from hepatitis A and B with vaccinations and find out more about the importance of getting vaccinated and how it can improve your overall health. Call 469-545-9983 to schedule your appointment today.