Hepatitis A

What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver disease caused by the Hepatitis A virus. It is spread when people swallow contaminated food or water, or by putting their hands in their mouths after touching contaminated surfaces. Symptoms usually appear 2-7 weeks after exposure, and can last 2-6 months.

Symptoms include:

  • Jaundice (yellow skin & whites of eyes)

  • Fever

  • Diarrhea

  • Fatigue/ tired

  • Loss of appetite

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Stomach pain

  • Dark-colored urine

  • Pale or clay colored stool

How is Hepatitis A spread?

Person-to-person contact

  • Close, personal contact with someone who is infected with Hepatitis A, who may or may not have symptoms

  • Caring for someone who is sick

  • Sex

  • Drug use

Eating contaminated food or drink

  • Contamination can happen at any point: growing, harvesting, processing, handling, or after cooking

  • If someone with Hepatitis A prepares your food, you can be exposed to the virus

How do I protect myself?

  • Get the safe, effective vaccine at your local health department or other provider

  • If you are exposed to Hepatitis A, contact your local health department for post-exposure vaccination

  • Practice good handwashing at all times, but especially before preparing food or eating and after changing a diaper or using the bathroom.