Vaqta (PF) IM
Generic Name: HEPATITIS A VACCINE - INJECTIONPronounced: (hep-uh-TIE-tuss A)
Vaqta (PF) IM Uses
This medication is used to help prevent infection from the hepatitis A virus. Hepatitis A infection can be mild with no symptoms or a severe illness that can rarely cause liver failure and death. Preventing infection can prevent these problems.
Hepatitis A vaccine is made from whole, killed hepatitis A virus. It does not contain live virus, so you cannot get hepatitis from the vaccine. This vaccine causes the body to make defensive substances (antibodies) against hepatitis A virus that can protect you from infection with it. Hepatitis A vaccine does not protect you from other virus infections (e.g., HIV virus which causes AIDS, hepatitis B/C/E, HPV virus which causes genital warts and other problems).
The vaccine is recommended for persons aged 12 months and older, especially those at an increased risk of getting the infection. Those at an increased risk include household and intimate contacts of persons with hepatitis A infection, institutional or daycare workers, lab workers, persons with multiple sex partners, men who have sex with men, sex workers, injecting and non-injecting drug abusers, and persons traveling to high-risk areas.
How To Use Vaqta (PF) IM
Read the Vaccine Information Statement available from your health care provider before receiving the vaccine. If you have any questions, consult your health care provider.
This vaccine is usually given by injection into a shoulder muscle by a health care professional. Hepatitis A vaccine is a slightly milky, white suspension. Before giving this medication, inspect it visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Shake the vial or prefilled syringe well, and then measure the appropriate dose. Do not dilute. Use the full recommended dose of the vaccine. Discard any remaining vaccine left in the vial/syringe.
A series of 2 injections is usually given over a 6- to 18-month period. Your doctor will give you a vaccination schedule, which must be followed closely for best effectiveness. If you have an infection with fever at the time a vaccination is scheduled, your doctor may choose to delay the injection until you are better.
