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When you hear about hepatitis A, you may think of tainted food and water, but this liver infection can also be spread from person to person.
The American Liver Foundation estimates that 115,900 new cases of hepatitis A, B, and C occur annually in the United States.
Hepatitis A triggers liver inflammation. Here, experts explore its causes, symptoms, treatment options, the importance of vaccination and how it spreads.
What is hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is part of a trio of hepatitis viruses, each causing liver inflammation and affecting how your liver works. The American Liver Association points out that hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C are all caused by different viruses, each with its own impact on the liver.
How do you get hepatitis A?
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that hepatitis A transmission occurs through contact with the hepatitis A virus, which lurks in the stool and blood of infected individuals. Here's how it happens:
Hepatitis A causes
The hepatitis A virus can be transmitted when even a tiny bit of infected stool finds its way into someone else's mouth (known as fecal-oral transmission). So, how does it happen? Here are the hepatitis A causes as explained by the Mayo Clinic:
Hepatitis A symptoms
In a recent video, Mayo Clinic infectious disease specialist Dr. Stacey Rizza said that symptoms include:
“In people who live in homeless facilities, hygiene is not always good. So, it’s easy to transmit the infection amongst a group that may be in close contact,” she added.
Hepatitis A treatment
Is hepatitis A treatable? The Mayo Clinic says hepatitis A doesn't have any treatments — your body does the heavy lifting by clearing the virus naturally. Most cases resolve within six months without leaving lasting harm to the liver.
The focus of hepatitis A treatment is on easing discomfort and symptom control. Here's what you might need to do:
Is there a hepatitis A vaccine?
In the United States, the hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for children aged 12 months to 18 years, according to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. This vaccine is typically administered in two doses, with the second given at least six months after the first. Children should receive the first dose after the age of 1, and those up to 18 who haven't been vaccinated should also get it.
Considering hepatitis A outbreaks occur annually in the United States, adults seeking protection can opt for vaccination. It's also advisable for those at an elevated risk of infection, including:
Living with hepatitis A
Managing hepatitis A primarily involves symptom relief. Doctors typically advise rest, a balanced diet and staying well-hydrated. In severe cases, hospital care may be necessary. Recovery after infection can be slow, stretching over several weeks or even months. It's crucial to steer clear of unnecessary medications that could harm your liver, like acetaminophen or paracetamol.
The good news is that once you recover from hepatitis A, you develop antibodies that protect you from the virus for life, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Resources
American Liver Foundation: Hepatitis
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Person-to-Person Outbreaks of Hepatitis A Across the United States
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Hepatitis A Questions and Answers for the Public
Mayo Clinic: Hepatitis A
Mayo Clinic Minute: Hepatitis A in the U.S.
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia: A Look at Each Vaccine: Hepatitis A Vaccine