Hepatitis A: an English guide

Hepatitis A spreads when virus particles reach the mouth, commonly through contaminated food or water or close contact. Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, discomfort under the ribs, dark urine and yellowing of the eyes or skin. Symptoms may develop after an interval following exposure, and some infected people notice little illness. Blood tests can confirm the infection and a liver function test can show how the liver is responding. The infection is different from forms of hepatitis that can persist long term.

Speak with a clinician if hepatitis A is possible, particularly after travel, a household exposure or an illness affecting several people who shared food. Sip fluids often, rest and eat small meals if appetite is low. Avoid alcohol and check every medicine, supplement or herbal remedy with a professional before taking it. Wash hands carefully, clean shared bathroom surfaces and avoid making food for other people while unwell. Vaccination can prevent infection in suitable people; ask about it after exposure or before travel.

Arrange urgent care for repeated vomiting, inability to drink, faintness, confusion, severe abdominal pain, very little urine or rapidly increasing yellowing. Contact a clinician promptly if you are pregnant, have existing liver problems or take medicines that may affect the liver. Phone ahead if hepatitis A is suspected.

Ask which tests will confirm the diagnosis, how to protect people at home, when you can return to food preparation, what medicines to avoid, and what follow-up your liver needs.