What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a vaccine-preventable contagious disease caused by the Hepatitis A virus. It causes

acute inflammation of the liver (hepatitis means inflamed liver) and does not become a chronic
condition unlike other Hepatitis infections such as B, C or D. After an individual is infected with
Hepatitis A they cannot catch it again as the body develops antibodies to protect against future
exposures.

Signs and symptoms may include:

 Fatigue
 Loss of appetite
 Nausea
 Vomiting
 Abdominal pain
 Dark urine
 Clay-colored bowel movements
 Joint pain
 Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)

How is Hepatitis A spread?

The hepatitis A virus is usually spread by putting something in your mouth that is contaminated by the
stool (poop) of another person who is infected with hepatitis A.

Hepatitis A is contracted through:

 household contact with an infected person

 sexual contact with an infected person
 eating or drinking contaminated food or water
 sharing eating utensils that are contaminated
 touching contaminated surfaces and then placing your hands near or in the mouth

What can I do to protect myself?

Immunization is the best protection
It is recommended that children 12 months through 18 years of age be given the two dose vaccine
series. A single dose vaccine is effective protection for most healthy adults and is especially
recommended for those travelling to an area where Hepatitis A is endemic.
Practice good hand hygiene
Because so many cases of hepatitis A are due to close contact with an infected person, you should
always practice good personal hygiene. The simple act of washing your hands can protect you against
Hepatitis A and other diseases.

What should I do if I think I have been exposed to Hepatitis A?

If you believe you were exposed to Hepatitis A contact your health care provider or local health
department. If you were recently exposed to Hepatitis A virus and have not been vaccinated against
it, an injection of Hepatitis A vaccine may be recommended and needs to be given within first two
weeks after exposure to be effective. Consult with your health care provider to collaborate on making
the best decision for you and your family.