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Hepatitis A

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Understanding Hepatitis A

What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A Virus (HAV). This virus can lead to significant illness and, in some cases, liver failure.1

Symptoms

The symptoms include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, fever, diarrhea, dark urine, clay-colored stool and jaundice2.
An individual infected with Hepatitis A can spread the disease to others even if they do not exhibit any symptoms3

How does Hepatitis A spread?

Hepatitis A is primarily spread through the fecal-oral route. This means that the virus is excreted in the stool of an infected person and can contaminate food, water, or surfaces.1

Common ways of transmission

  • Consuming contaminated food or water.3
  • Close personal contact with an infected person.3
  • Poor sanitary conditions and inadequate hygiene practices.3

How severe is the disease?

Hepatitis A can cause severe liver inflammation and other complications, in certain severe cases it may lead to liver failure. The severity of the illness can vary from mild, lasting a few weeks, to severe, lasting several months. Older adults and individuals with underlying liver conditions are more likely to experience severe illness.1

Duration of hospitalization

The length of hospitalization for Hepatitis A varies depending on the severity of the illness. On average, patients may need to be hospitalized for about a week. However, those with severe symptoms or complications may require extended hospital stays.4

Prevention tips

Vaccination

One of the most effective ways to prevent Hepatitis A is through vaccination.4

Good hygiene practices

Regularly wash hands with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before eating or preparing food.4

Safe drinking water

Ensure that drinking water is clean and safe. Use bottled or boiled water if the safety of tap water is in doubt.3

Food safety

Avoid eating raw or undercooked seafood. Ensure that food is cooked properly.3

Travel precautions

When traveling to areas with poor sanitation, be cautious about food and water consumption.4

Who should consider taking Hepatitis A vaccine?

  • All children aged 1 year and above.5
  • People with chronic liver disease.5
  • People traveling to places where Hepatitis A is common or have sanitation and hygiene issues.5
  • Adults who were not vaccinated previously and want to be protected against Hepatitis A.5
  • Food handlers.5
  • Users of recreational drugs.5
  • People experiencing homelessness.5

What is the dosage and schedule of Hepatitis A vaccine?

The Hepatitis A vaccine is typically administered in two doses, however, consult a doctor for dosage and schedule.

Children

Children are generally given the vaccine as part of routine immunization schedules

  • 1st Dose: Administered at 12 months and above
  • 2nd Dose: Administered 6 to 12 months after the first dose

Adolescent

  • 1st Dose: An initial dose is given at any time
  • 2nd Dose: Given 6-12 months after the first dose for long-term immunity

Adult

  • 1st Dose: An initial dose is given at any time
  • 2nd Dose: Given 6-12 months after the first dose for long-term immunity

Hepatitis A incidence in India remains a public health concern, highlighting the importance of good hygiene practices, particularly among food handlers. Contaminated food and water are common sources of infection, emphasizing the need for proper sanitation and vaccination. By addressing these issues, the risk of future outbreaks can be minimized.6-8

References:

  1. Hepatitis A. Available at: https://www.who.int/ news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-a#:~:text=Key%20facts,A%20with %20a%20lifelong%20immunity. Accessed on August 23, 2024.
  2. Hepatitis A vaccine: What you need to know. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/vis-statements/hep-a.pdf. Accessed on August 23, 2024.
  3. Hepatitis A patient fact sheet. Available at: https://www.hepatitis.va.gov/pdf/HAV-fact-sheet.pdf. Accessed on August 23, 2024.
  4. Hepatitis A. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/ hepatitis-a/media/HepAGeneralFactSheet.pdf. Accessed on August 23, 2024.
  5. Hepatitis A Vaccine. Available at: https://www.chop.edu/ vaccine-education-center/vaccine-details/hepatitis-a-vaccine. Accessed on August 23, 2024.
  6. Rakesh Sherin D, Sankar H, et al. Investigating a community-wide outbreak of hepatitis a in India. J Glob Infect Dis. 2014;6(2):59–64.
  7. Viral hepatitis- The silent disease facts and treatment guidelines. Available at: https://ncdc.mohfw.gov.in/ wp-content/uploads/2024/04/guideline_hep20158117187417.pdf. Accessed on August 23, 2024.
  8. Fallucca A, Restivo V, Sgariglia MC, et al. Hepatitis a vaccine as opportunity of primary prevention for food handlers: A narrative review. Vaccines (Basel). 2023;11(7):1271.

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The information provided in this leaflet is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment, and any medical concerns.

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