AARP Hearing Center
In most cases, yes, Medicare will cover hepatitis shots if you’re considered at risk for this liver infection. But the most common types — hepatitis A, B and C — have different risk factors and Medicare coverage.
Does Medicare cover the hepatitis A shot?
Yes, but the hepatitis A vaccine is typically covered under Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage, like the shingles vaccine, not under Medicare Part B, which covers many other vaccines.
Highly contagious hepatitis A is a liver infection. The virus is most often spread through food or drinks contaminated by an infected person. Any infection is usually short-term, but it can lead to serious complications, such as liver failure and death, if left untreated.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children ages 12 to 23 months receive the hepatitis A vaccine, as well as children ages 2 to 18 if they weren’t vaccinated earlier. The CDC also recommends the vaccine for adults at increased risk for hepatitis A.
Who is more at risk to get hepatitis A?
Anyone can contract hepatitis A, but some people have more exposure to potential infection than others. That includes those who:
- Anticipate close contact with an international adoptee.
- Are male and have had sexual contact with other men.
- Aren’t vaccinated and live within settings where hepatitis A outbreaks have occurred, including group homes, jails and prisons.
- Experience homelessness.
- Have chronic liver disease.
- Have HIV.
- Inject drugs or use illegal drugs.
- Travel internationally.
- Work in areas with a risk for infection, including day care centers, hospitals and sewage treatment plants.
Does Medicare cover the hepatitis B shot?
Yes, but the type of coverage depends on the severity of risk.
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