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Who gets hepatitis A?

Anyone can be infected by hepatitis A. Groups at particular risk include sexual partners of hepatitis A carriers, people sharing a household with hepatitis A carriers, intravenous drug users and people who live in, or have travelled to, countries where sanitation is not good and hepatitis A is common.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is an inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus.

What are the signs of hepatitis A?

A hepatitis A infection can often pass undetected, since many people who contract the virus exhibit no signs and symptoms. Signs of hepatitis A include fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, dark urine, muscle and joint pains, jaundice, fever, …

How is hepatitis A transmitted?

The hepatitis A virus spreads via the oral-fecal route, often through food and water that is contaminated with human bodily waste.

What happens after I am infected?

Hepatitis A is normally not a serious condition and goes away naturally after a few weeks.

How is hepatitis A diagnosed?

Your doctor will usually diagnose hepatitis A by performing a blood test.

How is hepatitis A treated?

Hepatitis A usually does not require treatment. Bed rest, hydration and good nutrition can help your body recover from the infection.

Are there complications of hepatitis A?

Complications of hepatitis A are rare. In some people the infection can relapse. In rare cases, infection with hepatitis A in combination with other liver conditions or a weakened immune system can produce liver failure, a serious condition.

Can I prevent hepatitis A infection?

A vaccine for hepatitis A is available. The risk of contracting hepatitis A can be reduced by taking care to avoid contact with infected people.

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About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 19 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.1 out of 5
Votes: 158 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Hepatitis B

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