What should you know about the hepatitis A family?

The virus can spread when tiny amounts of infected stool reach food, water, hands, or shared surfaces. A person may spread it before recognising symptoms, so one household member's diagnosis matters to close contacts. Symptoms may include tiredness, nausea, reduced appetite, abdominal discomfort, fever, and dark urine. Not everyone develops the same pattern, and other illnesses can cause similar symptoms. Learn more about [Hepatitis A](/conditions/hepatitis-a/), [Nausea](/symptoms/nausea/), and [Dark Urine](/symptoms/dark-urine/).

Wash hands carefully with soap and water after using the toilet, changing nappies, and before preparing or eating food. Do not share towels or food prepared by someone who is unwell. Ask a clinician promptly whether household contacts need [Hepatitis A Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/hepatitis-a-vaccination/), especially after a known exposure or before travel. A clinician may arrange a [Liver Function Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/liver-function-test/) and other tests to clarify the diagnosis. Follow local advice about food preparation and staying away from work, school, or childcare.

Arrange medical assessment if a family member develops new nausea, loss of appetite, marked tiredness, or dark urine after possible exposure. Seek urgent care for confusion, unusual sleepiness, repeated vomiting, severe abdominal pain, bleeding, or inability to drink. A child, older adult, pregnant person, or someone with existing liver disease may need earlier advice.

Ask whether the illness has been confirmed, which household members need assessment, how long precautions should continue, and when vaccination or follow-up testing is appropriate.