Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious virus that causes inflammation of the liver and spreads through the fecal-oral route, meaning it can be transmitted by consuming contaminated food, water, or through close contact in places like daycares and buffets.

• Hepatitis A is a highly contagious virus that causes inflammation of the liver and spreads through the fecal-oral route, meaning it can be transmitted by consuming contaminated food (such as fresh or frozen fruits), water, or through close contact in places like daycares and buffets.
• Symptoms & Risks
  • Symptoms appear 15-50 days after exposure (average of 30 days) and include:
  • Fever, nausea, vomiting, jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), dark urine, and stomach pain
  • Symptoms can last weeks to months—some people feel sick for up to 6 months, similar to a long case of mononucleosis (mono).
  • Older children and adults are more likely to have symptoms, while only 30% of kids under 6 show signs of illness.
• Prevention & Treatment
  • There is no treatment—the body must fight off the infection on its own.
  • Rest, hydration, and proper nutrition help manage symptoms.
  • The Hepatitis A vaccine is the best protection, preventing infection even after exposure if given promptly.
  • Good hygiene, like washing hands after using the bathroom and before eating, reduces the risk.
• Before the Vaccine
  • 26,000 cases were reported each year before routine vaccination.
  • Thanks to the vaccine, cases have dropped dramatically, making Hepatitis A much less common.

Hepatitis A Vaccines remain the best protection against Hepatitis A. Stay protected. Stay informed.

Here is a video that goes into more detail about Hepatitis A.