Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV) and can be prevented through vaccination. It does not cause chronic liver disease, but it can lead to debilitating symptoms and, in rare cases, acute liver failure, which can be life-threatening. The virus is highly contagious and is primarily spread through the ingestion of contaminated food or water, close personal contact with an infected individual, or oral-anal sex.
While most people with hepatitis A do not have long-lasting illness, in rare cases, it can be life-threatening, especially for older individuals and those with other serious health issues. The best way to prevent hepatitis A is through vaccination, good personal hygiene, proper sanitation, and safe food practices
The vaccine is safe, highly effective, and offers long-term protection, with the first dose providing protection within 1-2 weeks and lasting for 20 years to life after the second dose. In addition to vaccination, good personal hygiene, proper sanitation, and safe food practices also help prevent the spread of the virus.
Hepatitis A Symptoms
Symptoms can last up to 2 months and include fatigue, nausea, stomach pain, and jaundice. While most people do not experience long-lasting illness, the best way to prevent hepatitis A is by getting vaccinated.
Symptoms include:
- Low-grade fever
- Dark urine
- Joint pain
- Clay- or gray-colored stool
- Yellowing of the skin and the whites of your eyes (jaundice)
- Intense itching
- Unusual tiredness and weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain or discomfort, especially on the upper right side beneath your lower ribs (over your liver)
- Sudden nausea and vomiting and diarrhea
Hepatitis A virus can be transmitted via:
- Consuming food handled by an individual with the virus who fails to adequately wash their hands after using the restroom
- Ingesting contaminated water
- Eating food washed in contaminated water
- Consuming raw shellfish from water contaminated with sewage
- Close contact with an infected person, even if they are asymptomatic
- Engaging in sexual activity with an infected individual
Get Protected
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider or a travel health specialist to assess the specific vaccination recommendations based on the travel itinerary and individual health considerations. To ensure your protection against Hepatitis A, schedule an appointment for the vaccine at Mint Health + Drugs.
Our pharmacists can offer valuable information on required and recommended vaccinations, as well as essential tips for maintaining good health while traveling. Get in touch or book an appointment with our Travel Consultation Pharmacists.
