Hepatitis A and B Vaccines

Hepatitis A and B Vaccines

Hepatitis A and B vaccines are safe and highly effective immunizations designed to protect against two serious liver infections caused by the hepatitis A and B viruses. These vaccines work by stimulating the body’s immune system to produce antibodies that prevent infection if exposed in the future.

While the vaccines have an excellent safety record, rare adverse reactions can occur and may be eligible for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP).

In very rare cases, an abnormal immune response or improper injection technique may cause inflammation or injury near the vaccination site. Some individuals experience shoulder pain, limited range of motion, or allergic reactions shortly after vaccination. Most of these effects resolve with treatment, but they can sometimes result in longer-lasting complications.

Warning signs can appear suddenly and may include:

  • Persistent shoulder or arm pain beginning within hours or days after the shot

  • Tingling, burning, or numbness radiating down the arm

  • Weakness or loss of motion in the affected limb

  • Swelling, redness, or significant discomfort around the injection site

  • In severe cases, difficulty breathing or facial swelling (signs of anaphylaxis)

Although such reactions are extremely uncommon, they can disrupt daily activities and require medical care. Most people recover fully within weeks or months, but some experience residual weakness or stiffness.

If you or your child developed significant shoulder pain, limited motion, or another serious reaction after receiving a hepatitis A or B vaccination, you may be eligible to file a VICP claim. These cases are time-sensitive, so contact our firm right away to begin your claim and secure the compensation you deserve.

  • The hepatitis A and B vaccines contain inactivated viral components that help the body develop immunity without causing infection.

    Hepatitis A vaccine uses an inactivated (killed) virus, while the hepatitis B vaccine contains a purified surface antigen (a harmless protein from the virus).

    These are combined with small amounts of aluminum-based adjuvants to boost immune response and trace preservatives or stabilizers to maintain effectiveness.

    • Hepatitis A vaccine: Inactivated hepatitis A virus, aluminum hydroxide, and stabilizers.

    • Hepatitis B vaccine: Purified hepatitis B surface antigen, aluminum adjuvant, and trace preservatives.

    • Both vaccines are given in a series of doses for lasting immunity.

  • These vaccines train your immune system to recognize and fight the hepatitis A and B viruses—both of which attack the liver.

    By producing protective antibodies, the vaccines prevent infection and reduce complications like liver failure or chronic liver disease.

    • Prevent severe liver inflammation caused by hepatitis A or B infection.

    • Reduce the spread of viral hepatitis in communities and workplaces.

    • Provide long-term protection—often lasting decades or more.

  • A few rare vaccine injuries are recognized by the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP):

    • Anaphylaxis: A rare but serious allergic reaction causing swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing.

    • SIRVA (Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration): Shoulder pain and limited movement caused by improper injection technique.

    • Vasovagal Syncope: A fainting episode that can result in secondary injuries like falls or head trauma shortly after vaccination.

  • If you may have suffered a vaccine-related injury, the most important step is to seek medical care right away.

    Early treatment can help reduce symptoms, prevent complications, and create clear medical documentation that supports your recovery and any future claim.

    Once you’ve received care, hire a Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) lawyer to handle your case.

    VICP claims follow a unique federal process, and having a lawyer who understands this system ensures your claim is filed correctly and on time.

    Best of all, attorney fees are paid by the program, not by you. Getting the right help early protects both your health and your legal rights, without costing you anything, whether you win or lose your claim.

    • Hepatitis A and B vaccines are over 95% effective at preventing infection.

    • Since introduction, hepatitis A infections in the U.S. have dropped by over 90%, and hepatitis B by more than 80% among children and young adults.

    • Millions of doses are administered each year worldwide.

    • Serious adverse reactions occur in less than one per million vaccinations.

    If you experienced an adverse reaction after receiving a hepatitis A or B vaccine, you may be entitled to compensation under the VICP.

    Contact our firm today to discuss your claim and protect your right to recovery.

A medical tray with a green syringe, a vial, and medical gloves, surrounded by paper and medical supplies.