How is Hepatitis A transmitted?
- Person-to-person contact - Hepatitis A can be spread from close, personal contact with an infected person, such as through certain types of sexual contact (like oral-anal sex), caring for someone who is ill, or using drugs with others. Hepatitis A is very contagious, and people can even spread the virus before they feel sick.
- Eating contaminated food or drink - Contamination of food with the Hepatitis A virus can happen at any point: growing, harvesting, processing, handling, and even after cooking. Contamination of food and water happens more often in countries where Hepatitis A is common. Although uncommon, foodborne outbreaks have occurred in the United States from people eating contaminated fresh and frozen imported food products.
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis A?
Symptoms of Hepatitis A can last up to 2 months and include:
- fatigue
- nausea
- stomach pain
- jaundice
How will I know if I have Hepatitis A?
A doctor can determine if you have Hepatitis A by discussing your symptoms and ordering a blood test that can tell whether you have been recently infected with the virus that causes Hepatitis A.
How is Hepatitis A treated?
There is no specific treatment for Hepatitis A. It’s important for those with Hepatitis A to consult a healthcare professional before taking any prescription medications, supplements, or over-the-counter drugs, as these can potentially harm the liver. Additionally, alcohol should be strictly avoided..
Can Hepatitis A be prevented?
Yes. The best way to prevent Hepatitis A is through vaccination with the Hepatitis A vaccine. Vaccination is recommended for all children, for travelers to certain countries, and for people at high risk for infection with the virus. Frequent hand washing with soap and warm water after using the bathroom, changing a diaper, or before preparing food can help prevent the spread of Hepatitis A.
Who should get vaccinated against Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for:
- All children at age 1 year
- Travelers to countries that have high rates of Hepatitis A
- Men who have sexual contact with other men
- Users of injection and non-injection illegal drugs
- People with chronic (lifelong) liver diseases, such as Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C
- People who are treated with clotting-factor concentrates
- People who work with Hepatitis A-infected animals or in a Hepatitis A research laboratory
