Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A (HAV)

 

 

What is Hepatitis A ?

Hepatitis A is an infection caused by a virus which attacks the liver.

How do you get Hepatitis A ?

• From feces. Infected persons may contaminate food if they do not wash their hands properly, or on a regular basis.
• During trips to foreign countries (due to ingesting contaminated food and water).
• From contact with the hands of a person with improperly washed hands, or a person who has the infection.
• By using contaminated materials when taking drugs (e.g. contaminated water or substances that have come into contact with poorly-washed hands).
• By unprotected anal sex or if the mouth comes into contact with the anus (rimming).

The infected person is contagious two weeks before the appearance of symptoms.

What are the symptoms of Hepatitis A ?

The symptoms of Hepatitis A normally appear from two to six weeks after contamination. Major symptoms may last from 10 to 14 days. Most common symptoms of the Hepatitis A virus may include:

• Fever;
• Fatigue;
• Loss of appetite;
• Nausea;
• Abdominal discomfort;
• Dark urine;
• Jaundice (yellowish coloration of the eyes and skin).

What is the treatment for Hepatitis A ?

There is no treatment for Hepatitis A. This form of Hepatitis goes away on its own. Therefore, it is important for patients to heal themselves by getting lots of rest, eating properly and avoiding alcohol and drugs, which put increased strain on an already unhealthy liver. Once people are cured, they acquire protective antibodies against this disease.

Additional information

The vaccine is very effective, well tolerated and rarely causes side effects. It is usually administered in two doses, 6 to 12 months apart and offers long-term protection. There is also a combined vaccine that immunizes against both Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B, in which case the dose will be different than that of only the Hepatitis A vaccine.

Reporting of Hepatitis A is compulsory. Public health professionals who diagnose Hepatitis A must inform the Public Health Department of their region.

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