What should you know about the hepatitis A virus?

The virus can spread when very small amounts of infected stool reach another person's mouth, including through contaminated food, water, hands, or close contact. Some infected people have few or no symptoms. Others develop feeling generally unwell, nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal discomfort, fever, or dark urine; yellow skin or eyes can occur as the liver becomes inflamed.

Hepatitis A is different from hepatitis B and hepatitis C. The name describes the virus and the liver inflammation it causes, not a single symptom. A clinician uses the history, examination, antibody tests, and liver blood tests to assess whether infection is present.

If infection is suspected, arrange clinical advice and follow instructions about handwashing, food preparation, and contact with others. Drink fluids in small amounts if nausea makes drinking difficult, rest, and avoid alcohol. Tell the clinician about travel, food exposures, household illness, vaccination, pregnancy, and all medicines or supplements.

Hepatitis A vaccination can prevent infection for people who are eligible or who may have been exposed. A clinician can explain whether it is appropriate and when it should be given.

Get prompt medical care for jaundice, dark urine, repeated vomiting, worsening abdominal pain, or an inability to keep fluids down. Seek urgent help for confusion, unusual sleepiness, fainting, or severe dehydration. Ask for advice after a known exposure even if you feel well, since preventive measures may be available.

Ask how hepatitis A would be confirmed, whether a liver function test is needed, how long to avoid preparing food for others, and whether household or intimate contacts need medical advice or vaccination.