What causes hepatitis A?

The virus can spread when handwashing is inadequate after toilet use or changing a nappy, or when contaminated hands touch food, drinks, or surfaces. It may also pass through close personal contact. A person can spread infection before recognising symptoms, so exposure is not always obvious. Hepatitis A affects the liver and can cause feeling generally unwell, nausea, loss of appetite, dark urine, and yellowing.

Wash hands with soap and water after using the toilet and before eating or preparing food. Do not prepare food for others while unwell until a clinician says it is appropriate. Tell a healthcare professional promptly about a known exposure, because Hepatitis A Vaccination may be considered for prevention. A clinician can explain whether testing, including a Liver Function Test, is appropriate for your symptoms and timing.

Arrange medical advice after a known exposure or if symptoms such as dark urine, yellowing, repeated vomiting, or significant weakness appear. Seek urgent help for confusion, collapse, inability to keep fluids down, or rapidly worsening illness. People with liver disease, older adults, children, and pregnant people should ask for advice promptly after exposure.

Could a recent food, water, or household exposure explain my symptoms? Should close contacts be assessed or vaccinated? What hygiene steps and testing plan apply while we wait?