What should you know about hepatitis A?

The infection can affect how the liver processes waste and bile. Some people feel generally unwell, lose their appetite, or feel sick; yellowing of the skin or eyes and pale stools may also occur. Symptoms can vary, and children may have few or no symptoms. Hepatitis A does not become a lifelong infection in the way some other viral liver infections can.

It spreads when virus from an infected person reaches the mouth, often through contaminated food, water, hands, or close contact. A healthcare professional can assess your symptoms and may arrange a liver function test or other tests.

Contact a clinician if you develop symptoms or have had close contact with someone diagnosed with hepatitis A. Rest, drink fluids, and eat small meals if nausea or loss of appetite makes normal eating difficult. Ask before taking medicines or supplements because some products can put extra strain on the liver.

Wash hands carefully after using the toilet and before preparing food. Avoid preparing food for other people while you may be infectious, and follow local public-health advice about contact precautions. Hepatitis A vaccination can help prevent infection for people who are eligible or at increased risk.

Seek urgent help if you become confused, unusually sleepy, unable to keep fluids down, or develop severe abdominal pain. Contact a clinician promptly for yellow skin or eyes, very dark urine, worsening weakness, or signs of dehydration. Pregnancy, existing liver disease, or significant exposure to hepatitis A should be discussed without delay because assessment and prevention may be time-sensitive.

Ask which tests are needed, whether you should avoid specific medicines, how long to take precautions around food and close contacts, and whether household members need advice or vaccination. Ask when you can return to work or school and which symptoms should trigger a review.