What Is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that strikes the liver. The virus causes the liver to become inflamed, and liver function is reduced. Waste that is normally excreted by the liver builds up in the blood, and jaundice usually results.

Hepatitis A is passed from person to person through contact with feces. You can contract the virus from an infected child by changing a diaper, or by having sexual contact with an infected person. Hepatitis A can also contaminate and be contracted through food and water.

Hepatitis A virus is very common in developing countries, but it also occurs in the United States.

Symptoms of hepatitis A include:

  • Jaundice
  • Fatigue
  • Abdominal pain or soreness
  • No appetite
  • Nausea
  • Headache, chills

There is no treatment for hepatitis A, but there are lifestyle changes that can reduce symptoms when they occur. If you suffer from fatigue, get plenty of rest. Maintain a healthy, balanced diet and avoid alcohol.

At times, people with hepatitis A may require hospitalization. The infection rarely can be fatal if liver function is greatly reduced.

What Is the Hepatitis A Vaccine?

The hepatitis A vaccine contains a live, weakened form of the hepatitis A virus. It is administered as a subcutaneous injection in the arm.

The hepatitis A vaccine should be stored in a cool environment, between 35˚F-47˚F, but it should not be frozen.

A combined vaccine that protects against both hepatitis A and B is also available.

Who Should Get Vaccinated and When?

The following individuals should get vaccinated:

  • Children age 12 months or greater in high-risk areas
  • Individuals traveling to areas where hepatitis A is prevalent
  • Individuals who engage in anal sex
  • Drug users
  • Individuals with chronic liver disease
  • Individuals with blood-clotting disorders, like hemophilia
  • Children who live in areas where hepatitis A is prevalent

The hepatitis A vaccine is given in a series of two shots. People who are traveling should begin their hepatitis A vaccinations at least one month before departure.

What Are the Risks Associated With the Hepatitis A Vaccine?

There is a risk of severe allergic reaction to the hepatitis A vaccine, with symptoms such as difficulty breathing, skin rash, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or wheezing. Less common moderate side effects include:

  • Soreness at the site of injection
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue

Who Should Not Get Vaccinated?

The following individuals should not get vaccinated:

  • Children under one year of age
  • Anyone who has already had hepatitis A
  • Anyone who has previously had a severe allergic reaction to the hepatitis A vaccine
  • Anyone who has previously had a severe allergic reaction to any component of the hepatitis A vaccine (including alum or 2-phenoxyethanol or neomycin)
  • Anyone who is ill at the time they want to receive the vaccination should wait until they have recovered
  • Pregnant women

What Other Ways Can Hepatitis A Be Prevented Besides Vaccination?

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the restroom or changing a diaper, to prevent acquiring hepatitis A.
  • Immune globulin (proteins used to fight infections) given before and after viral exposure is another way of preventing and treating hepatitis A.

What Happens in the Event of an Outbreak?

If a food-borne hepatitis A outbreak occurred, the source of the contaminated food would be identified and eliminated. In any hepatitis A outbreak, the affected community should receive vaccination to prevent the spread of the virus.