Hepatitis A is a viral liver disease, highly contagious and caused by the hepatitis A virus. Just like hepatitis b and c viruses, this virus inflames and affects the function of your liver.
You can contract hepatitis A from contaminated food or water, or an infected person or object. Hepatitis A can be mild; requiring no treatment. Most times, infected persons can recover completely without permanent liver damage.
A good hygienic practice can protect you against this disease. Vaccines are available for prevention too.
Signs of hepatitis A appeara few weeks after infection. It can be asymptomatic, but if symptoms develop, it can include:
These symptoms may go from mild to severe. Sometimes, it can disappear after a few weeks.
When to seek medical attention
If you have symptoms of hepatitis A, see your doctor.Hepatitis A vaccine or an antibody (an injection of immunoglobulin)taken within 2 weeks of exposure to the virus can prevent infection.
Other conditions for receiving the vaccine is if:
Getting tested is not only quick and easy, it’s the only way to know for sure
if
you do or do not have an STD.
Hepatitis A is caused by a virus that inflames and affect liver cells. This inflammation affects the way your liver works and triggers other signs and symptoms of hepatitis A.
Point of infection is through consumption of contaminated food or water with the smallest amount of faecal matter.
Hepatitis A doesn’t spread through coughing or sneezing.
The virus can spread through:
You are more susceptible to hepatitis A when:
Hepatitis A, unlike other types of viral hepatitis, does not cause long-term liver damage. It doesn’t become chronic either.
The disease rarely causes loss of liver function, especially in aged people or people suffering from chronic liver diseases.
Any acute liver failure will require a stay in the hospital for close observation and treatment. In other cases, people with acute liver failure may need a liver transplant to replace a dysfunctional liver.
How to prevent hepatitis A
Hepatitis A vaccine can prevent you from being infected with the virus. The vaccine is administered in two shots. The first shot is followed by a booster shot after six months.
The Centers for Disease Control and Preventions has recommended the hepatitis A vaccine for:
Prevent infection during an outbreak by:
Practice good hygiene by carrying out things as basic as washing your hands often, especially after using the toilet, changing diapers, and before preparing food or eating.
It pays to be hygienic! Your general health is affected by your daily practices. Eat well-prepared meals and keep your environment sanitised always.
Getting tested is not only quick and easy, it’s the only way to know for sure
if
you do or do not have an STD.