## Should You Get the Hep A Vaccine If Traveling to Africa?
Hepatitis A is a viral infection of the liver that can cause fever, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, light-colored stools, and joint pain. In severe cases, hepatitis A can lead to liver failure and death.
The hepatitis A virus is spread through contact with contaminated food or water. It is found in the feces of infected people and can be transmitted through contact with contaminated objects, such as food, water, or utensils.
Hepatitis A is a common infection in Africa. In 2016, there were an estimated 1.4 million cases of hepatitis A in Africa, and 11,000 deaths.
The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent hepatitis A infection. The vaccine is given in two doses, six months apart. The vaccine is 95% effective in preventing hepatitis A infection.
If you are traveling to Africa, you should consider getting the hepatitis A vaccine. The vaccine is especially important if you are planning to travel to areas where there is a high risk of exposure to contaminated food or water.
### Who Should Get the Hep A Vaccine?
The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all travelers to Africa, regardless of their age or length of stay. The vaccine is especially important for people who are at high risk of exposure to contaminated food or water, such as:
People who are traveling to rural areas
People who are staying in guesthouses or hostels
People who are eating at street food stalls
People who are drinking water from wells or rivers
### How to Get the Hep A Vaccine
The hepatitis A vaccine is available at most travel clinics and pharmacies. The vaccine is given in two doses, six months apart. The cost of the vaccine varies depending on the location and the type of vaccine.
### Side Effects of the Hep A Vaccine
The hepatitis A vaccine is generally well-tolerated. The most common side effects are pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site. Other side effects may include:
Fever
Fatigue
Headache
Nausea
Vomiting
These side effects usually go away within a few days.
### Other Ways to Prevent Hepatitis A Infection
In addition to getting the hepatitis A vaccine, there are other ways to prevent hepatitis A infection, including:
Washing your hands frequently with soap and water
Eating only cooked food
Drinking only bottled water or boiled water
Avoiding contact with contaminated objects
### Conclusion
Hepatitis A is a common infection in Africa. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent hepatitis A infection. If you are traveling to Africa, you should consider getting the hepatitis A vaccine.