Recommended vaccination against hepatitis A

Since the beginning of 2017, the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) has recorded two and a half times more cases of hepatitis A than in the previous year. Hepatitis A is an infectious disease caused by the hepatitis A virus which is spread through the faecal-oral route by contact or lube infection. Three times more men than women are affected by this disease of the liver (hepatitis). These men are mostly in the age group of 25-44 year olds who have sex with other men (MSM).

The most effective means of protection against hepatitis A is by vaccination. According to the Swiss vaccination schedule, the vaccination is recommended as a primary prevention for risk groups. The injection can be administered with a single (monovalent) vaccine (two doses six months apart) or with a combination vaccine against hepatitis A and B. As a secondary prevention, a monovalent vaccine may be administered within seven days after exposure to the virus. In both cases, the costs are covered by compulsory health insurance.

If you have any further questions, please contact your physician.