Hepatitis A Fact Sheet

Hepatitis A is a viral liver disease caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV). It is primarily transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water, or through direct contact with an infected person. While most individuals recover completely, the disease can cause severe illness, especially in older adults or those with pre-existing health conditions. Hepatitis A remains a significant concern in regions with poor sanitation.

Causes and Transmission
  • Hepatitis A Virus (HAV): Hepatitis A is caused by the Hepatitis A virus, which infects the liver.
  • Contaminated Food and Water: The most common method of transmission is through the consumption of food or water contaminated with the virus from fecal matter.
  • Person-to-Person Transmission: The virus can also spread through close contact with an infected person.
  • Poor Sanitation: Hepatitis A is more prevalent in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water.
Symptoms of Hepatitis A

Symptoms of Hepatitis A typically appear 2 to 6 weeks after exposure to the virus and can range from mild to severe:

  • Fever: Common in the early stages of infection.
  • Fatigue: Feeling tired and weak is a typical symptom.
  • Abdominal Pain: Pain, especially in the upper right side of the abdomen where the liver is located.
  • Jaundice: A yellowing of the skin and eyes due to liver dysfunction.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: These can occur alongside other digestive symptoms.
  • Dark Urine: A sign of liver damage, which can occur in severe cases.

Recovery from symptoms following infection may be slow and can take several weeks or months.

Prevention
  • Vaccination: The Hepatitis A vaccine is the most effective way to prevent infection. It is recommended for people at risk, including travelers to endemic areas.
  • Safe Drinking Water: Drink only boiled, bottled, or chlorinated water to prevent infection from contaminated sources.
  • Good Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and before eating or preparing food.
  • Food Safety: Avoid eating raw or undercooked food, particularly in areas with poor sanitation.
  • Avoid Close Contact: Limit contact with infected individuals to prevent person-to-person transmission.
Treatment of Hepatitis A
  • Rest and Supportive Care: There is no specific antiviral treatment for Hepatitis A, and care is mainly supportive, focusing on rest and hydration.
  • Liver Protection: Avoid alcohol and medications that could further damage the liver during recovery.
  • Monitoring: In severe cases, patients may need to be monitored for complications like liver failure.
  • Hospitalization: In rare instances, particularly for older adults or those with chronic liver disease, hospitalization may be necessary for more intensive care.
Hepatitis A Around the World

Hepatitis A is prevalent in many developing countries, particularly in areas where sanitation is poor. While vaccines have significantly reduced its prevalence in some regions, it remains a significant cause of morbidity in areas with inadequate water and sanitation. According to the WHO, vaccination campaigns have successfully reduced Hepatitis A cases in many regions, especially among high-risk groups.

Helpful Resources