What should you know about hepatitis A (HAV)?

HAV is the virus behind hepatitis A. It usually spreads through contaminated food, water, hands, or surfaces and enters the body through the mouth. The infection can cause feeling generally unwell, fever, nausea, loss of appetite, stomach discomfort, dark urine, and yellowing of the eyes or skin. Symptoms can vary, and their presence does not establish the diagnosis because several illnesses affect the liver or digestive system. Read more about [Hepatitis A](/conditions/hepatitis-a/) and [Dark Urine](/symptoms/dark-urine/).

If HAV exposure or symptoms are possible, contact a clinician and explain when the exposure occurred. Wash hands with soap and water, avoid preparing food for other people while unwell, and follow advice about work, school, or childcare. Diagnosis may involve blood tests and a [Liver Function Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/liver-function-test/). There is no reason to self-treat with supplements; ask before using medicines that may affect the liver. Discuss [Hepatitis A Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/hepatitis-a-vaccination/) for prevention or after exposure.

Arrange prompt review for nausea, loss of appetite, dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, or continuing fatigue. Seek urgent care if confusion, profound sleepiness, repeated vomiting, severe pain, bleeding, or dehydration develops. Mention any previous liver condition because it may affect the assessment.

Ask whether HAV testing is needed, how long you may be infectious, how to protect close contacts, and which symptoms should trigger urgent help.