How is hepatitis A virus transmitted?

The virus can spread when handwashing is incomplete after using the toilet or changing a nappy, then food or household surfaces are touched. It may also pass through food or drinks handled by someone who is infected. A person can spread infection before recognising that they are ill. Hepatitis A affects the liver and may cause feeling generally unwell, nausea, loss of appetite, tiredness, fever, or dark urine. Not everyone has the same symptoms.

Wash hands carefully with soap and running water after toilet use and before preparing or eating food. Do not prepare food for others while unwell until a clinician says it is appropriate. Use safe drinking water and take care with raw foods when travelling. If you have had close contact with someone diagnosed with hepatitis A, contact a healthcare professional promptly because vaccination may help prevent illness after exposure. A hepatitis A vaccination is also a useful preventive option for eligible people.

Arrange medical advice if you develop yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, persistent vomiting, marked tiredness, abdominal discomfort, or loss of appetite, especially after possible exposure. Seek urgent help if you cannot keep fluids down, become confused, faint, or have severe abdominal pain. A clinician may assess you and consider a liver function test.

Ask whether your symptoms fit hepatitis A, whether testing is needed, how long to avoid preparing food, and whether household or sexual contacts need advice or vaccination.