Consensus statement on the role of hepatitis A vaccination in patients with chronic liver disease

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is a ubiquitous, easily transmitted virus that can cause severe hepatitis, particularly in the adult population. Improvements in sanitation and hygiene in the developing world have led to a decline in immunity against HAV. A growing number of adults are now susceptible to infection, with those who have not been vaccinated against hepatitis B virus (HBV) being at risk of dual infection and potentially more severe illness. The symposium, "The role of hepatitis vaccination in patients with chronic liver disease", provided the opportunity to develop a consensus statement. It was concluded that patients with non-viral chronic liver disease (CLD) and certain groups with HBV infection can develop more severe disease in the event of HAV infection. It was identified that patients with CLD should be targeted for hepatitis A vaccination as soon as CLD is diagnosed.