Back to feed
86
223 10
martha_fox2026-04-17

I just got my first dose of Havrix 1ml IM Pfs (adult 19+) to protect against Hepatitis A. I'm curious about what side effects to expect and how long they will last. Also, does anyone know if it's better to take the second dose exactly 6 months later or if there's some flexibility in the timing? I've heard mixed things. I'd love to know if anyone has any personal experiences or tips to share! And finally, is the shot painful? They say it's just a small, thin needle, but I've had bad experiences with shots in the past. Thanks, everyone!

1 min read
last active 4/17/2026
HOT

Comments (10)

R
richard_wagner4/13/2026

I can say that the soreness at the injection site lasted about a week, but it wasn't too bad. I just iced it and took some Tylenol and it was fine. Keep an eye out for swelling and rash, and don't forget to report any side effects to the VAERS if you need to. Took me a while to find the page, but it was easy to report.

M
marie_ferguson4/13/2026

I had a mild case of the flu a few days after getting it. I don't think it was related, though. You shouldn't have any serious problems though. It's not like the flu shot.

P
pamela_hart4/13/2026

I got my first dose a few weeks ago. It's a good idea to note the date on your calendar because I'm sure I would have forgotten about the second dose - exactly 6 months seems like a long time to wait. I didn't have any major side effects, just some fatigue and a bit of a headache. I plan to schedule the second dose a month early to be safe, and because my insurance will cover it.

K
kenneth_jordan4/13/2026

I think it's best to get it exactly 6 months later. There might be flexibility, but the CDC guidelines recommend it and I wouldn't risk it. Just go by their schedule and you'll be good to go

J
joe_james4/13/2026

My friend works in the medical field, said it's better to take the second dose at the recommended six months instead of earlier. Just go by the CDC guidelines and you'll be good to go.

R
randy_ramirez4/13/2026

I got the Havrix vaccine last year and only had a slight headache and a bit of soreness at the injection site. No big deal! It was totally worth it to protect against Hepatitis A, though, stupid as it sounds, I need to remember to get the second dose this year.

M
martha_lane4/13/2026

I got the Havrix vaccine while traveling internationally. The side effects were minimal, just a bit of fatigue and a sore arm, but it was worth it. Also, whenever you get a vaccine, make sure you keep your vaccination record with you. That's super important.

P
peter_daniels4/13/2026

A friend of mine had a severe reaction to the vaccine—high fever and hallucinations. That's pretty rare, though, and they were fine after a few days. Kids are more likely to have severe reactions after vaccines... I'm glad they're doing fine now. Was it serious?

K
kathryn_martin4/13/2026

I heard the pain is no worse than a flu shot. Put some ibuprofen in your system before it and then after. Take it easy and drink lots of water.

J
joan_kennedy4/13/2026

Don't worry about the shot, it's basically painless. I got it last month, just to note. But, make sure you're vaccinated against Hepatitis B too, if you haven’t already.