How does Hepatitis A spread?
Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted when the feces/stool of an infected person contaminates objects, food, or drink that then comes into contact with an uninfected individual – usually via the mouth. Hepatitis A can be contracted:
- Through person-to-person contact
- When an infected person touches objects or food after using the bathroom and not washing hands properly
- If a parent or caregiver has not properly washed his/her hands after changing diapers, or cleaning up feces of a person who is infected
- Through sexual contact or sex with an infected person (not limited to oral or anal contact)
- Via contaminated water or food (including undercooked or frozen food)
- Most likely to occur in areas of the world where Hepatitis A is common due to poor personal hygiene and where sanitary conditions are also poor. Food and drinks most often contaminated are: fruits, vegetables, shellfish, ice, and water. Chlorine in U.S. water supplies kills the Hepatitis A virus that might enter it.
What are the risk factors for Hepatitis A?
Anyone can contract Hepatitis A, but certain groups in the United States are at a much greater risk, like:
- Those who live in or travel to areas of the world where the disease is common
- Males who have sexual contact with other males
- Those who use illegal drugs (not limited to injected drugs)
- Hemophiliacs or others with blood-clotting conditions
- Those living with someone infected with Hepatitis A
- Those who have had sexual contact with someone infected with Hepatitis A
- Family members or caregivers of a recent adoptee from countries where Hepatitis A is common
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis A?
A person could have no symptoms of Hepatitis A and still be infected with it. Children are less likely to have symptoms than adults. Symptoms typically appear two to six weeks after exposure. It typically takes several days for symptoms to develop. Symptoms normally last less than eight weeks, but some can experience symptoms for as long as six months.
Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Joint pain
- Abdominal pain
- Clay-colored bowel movements
- Dark urine
- Jaundice (a yellowing of the eyes or skin)
How is Hepatitis A diagnosed?
A doctor can determine if you have Hepatitis A by reviewing your symptoms and taking a blood sample.
How is Hepatitis A prevented?
The Hepatitis A vaccine is the most effective way to prevent contracting the disease. It is recommended for children, international travelers, and people who are at increased risk for Hepatitis A infection. A good way to prevent the spread of Hepatitis A is thoroughly washing hands before preparing food, after using the bathroom and after changing a diaper.
How is Hepatitis A prevented?
The Hepatitis A vaccine is the most effective way to prevent contracting the disease. It is recommended for children, international travelers, and people who are at increased risk for Hepatitis A infection. A good way to prevent the spread of Hepatitis A is thoroughly washing hands before preparing food, after using the bathroom and after changing a diaper.