Hepatitis A Vaccine: Understanding the Differences Between Free and Paid Options
Parents have the option to choose between two types of Hepatitis A vaccines for their children — the live attenuated vaccine (paid) and the inactivated vaccine (free). Both types offer protection against the Hepatitis A virus but differ in composition, effectiveness, and suitability for different individuals.
What Is the Inactivated Hepatitis A Vaccine?
The inactivated Hepatitis A vaccine is created by using physical or chemical methods to kill the virus, rendering it non-infectious while preserving its ability to trigger an immune response. Similar to other inactivated vaccines like those for pertussis and meningitis, this type of vaccine cannot replicate in the body. As a result, it typically requires multiple doses — usually two or three — to build up sufficient immunity. Although it demands more injections, it is considered more stable and easier to store, making it a reliable option for many individuals.
How Does the Live Attenuated Hepatitis A Vaccine Work?
Live attenuated vaccines are made by weakening the virus under controlled conditions so that it no longer causes disease but still retains its ability to replicate and stimulate a strong immune response. When administered, it mimics a mild, subclinical infection, prompting the body to develop long-lasting immunity. Unlike inactivated vaccines, live attenuated versions often require only a single dose to establish robust protection. Examples of this type include the oral polio vaccine and the measles vaccine.
Advanced Formulation of Live Attenuated Hepatitis A Vaccine
The freeze-dried live attenuated Hepatitis A vaccine is produced using a genetically stable and safe H2 strain grown in human diploid cell cultures. Advanced purification techniques are applied to extract and concentrate the virus, which is then suspended in a balanced salt solution enriched with amino acids. This process results in a highly purified live vaccine. The immune response is believed to be a combination of live virus replication and antigenic stimulation. Studies show that after a booster dose, the seroconversion rate reaches 100%, with a geometric mean titer (GMT) of 3,000 mIU/ml — significantly higher than after a single dose. Booster doses may enhance protection and extend its duration, making this vaccine particularly effective for long-term immunity.
Regulatory Status and Availability
Both the live attenuated and inactivated Hepatitis A vaccines are included in the national immunization program, although specific implementation may vary by province. Regardless of whether they are provided free of charge or purchased privately, all vaccines distributed in the market are approved and certified by national regulatory authorities, ensuring their safety and efficacy.
Key Differences Between the Two Vaccines
The primary distinction lies in how each vaccine stimulates the immune system. The live attenuated vaccine contains weakened but still active virus, allowing it to replicate in the body and induce a stronger, more durable immune response. In contrast, the inactivated version contains killed virus and requires multiple doses for optimal protection. For children with compromised immune systems, the inactivated vaccine is generally recommended, as live attenuated vaccines may pose a risk due to their replication capability.