Is hepatitis A a viral disease?

The virus infects liver cells and can cause temporary inflammation. Symptoms may include feeling generally unwell, nausea, loss of appetite, tiredness, abdominal discomfort, dark urine, and yellowing of the eyes or skin. Some people have mild illness or no obvious symptoms.

Transmission occurs when microscopic traces of infected stool reach the mouth, for example through contaminated food, water, hands, or close personal contact. Sexual contact can also transmit hepatitis A when it involves this route. It is not spread simply because someone has a liver condition.

Arrange medical advice if symptoms develop or you have had a possible exposure. A liver function test and other blood tests may help assess the illness, depending on the timing and your clinical history.

Wash hands with soap after using the toilet and before handling food. Do not prepare food for other people while unwell. Ask about hepatitis A vaccination, particularly after exposure or before situations where protection is advisable.

Seek urgent medical care for confusion, severe drowsiness, repeated vomiting, inability to drink, severe abdominal pain, bleeding, or quickly worsening yellow skin or eyes. These signs can indicate a serious illness or dehydration.

Ask whether your symptoms fit hepatitis A, whether testing is needed, when you may have been infectious, whether household or sexual contacts need advice, and which prevention steps apply to you.