Ask Dr. Lisa

Q: I'll be vacationing in the Caribbean. Do I need a hepatitis A vaccine?

A: Probably. Hepatitis A is a common virus that can cause a nasty, lasting "stomach flu" with symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain. It typically spreads through food or drinking water that's contaminated with infected stool, and it's particularly common in Central and South America, the Caribbean and Mexico. Although not as dangerous a virus as its bloodborne cousins, B and C, hepatitis A can cause severe, lengthy sickness. The vaccine should be given in two shots (about six months apart). Get the first one four weeks before you leave, then a booster six months later to prolong the protection. Even one dose will help, decreasing your risk of suffering if you carry home an unwelcome souvenir.

Lisa Callahan, M.D., is the author of The Fitness Factor (Lyons Press). Have a per-sonal health question for Dr. Lisa? Write to drlisa@self.com.