Hepatitis A Vaccination

Hepatitis A is contracted through water and food contaminated by the feces of an infected person. It can also be picked up if you are in close contact with a person who has hep A via bodily fluids. A case of hepatitis A normally resolves within a few months, though the symptoms may come and go for up to 24 weeks.

The hepatitis A virus causes inflammation of the liver.

Symptoms of hepatitis A

Hepatitis A symptoms do not develop for about a month after infection. They include fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, fatigue, diarrhea and jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and the eyes.

Some people’s hepatitis A progresses to liver failure. Get immediate medical advice if you experience any of these symptoms:

• sudden vomiting
• nosebleeds or bleeding gums or a tendency to bruise easily
• drowsiness, irritability and memory problems

Countries where hepatitis A is a risk

There is a worldwide risk of hepatitis A, though it is more common in:

• North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa
• Bangladesh, India, Nepal and Pakistan
• East Asia
• the Middle East
• South and Central America

Travellers at risk from hepatitis A

Travellers at particular risk of contracting hepatitis A include:

• men who have sex with men
• people who inject recreational drugs
• those who work with monkeys, apes or primates
• people who work among groups with poor hygiene

How to avoid catching hepatitis A

Your hepatitis A shot will offer protection but, there are some steps should take to avoid exposure to this virus and other food- and water-borne pathogens.

Watch what you eat

Hepatitis A occurs where sanitation is poor and can be picked up from contaminated food (shellfish is a common source of infection). Check that you are eating in a clean, good quality place. Food workers who have hep A or who wash their hands in dirty water can transmit the virus via your food.

Hot cooked food is a better choice than raw food. Peel fruit yourself and avoid salads. Some vegetables may be grown in fields irrigated with waste water and it is almost impossible to get lettuce and leafy produce completely clean.

Think before you drink

The hepatitis A virus may be contracted from contaminated water. Opt for water in factory-sealed bottles, or water that you know has been treated. Ice should be avoided: it is impossible to know what water has been used to make it and freezing does not destroy viruses.

Clean hands

Thorough handwashing is always recommended both before eating and cooking and after using the toilet.