Hepatitis A
Recent news regarding Hepatitis A highlights ongoing seasonal outbreaks, primarily linked to contaminated water and food, in various regions including Delhi-NCR and other parts of India, as well as specific areas in the EU/EEA. Public health experts are also advocating for the inclusion of the Hepatitis A vaccine in India's universal immunization program.
About Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable liver infection that is usually an acute, self-limiting illness and does not cause chronic liver disease. It is primarily spread through the fecal-oral route.
Causes and Transmission
The hepatitis A virus (HAV) is found in the stool and blood of infected individuals. Transmission typically occurs when an uninfected person ingests food or water contaminated with microscopic amounts of an infected person's feces, or through close personal contact, including sexual contact (especially oral-anal sex).
Common transmission scenarios include:
- Poor hygiene: An infected person not washing their hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and then handling food or objects.
- Contaminated sources: Drinking untreated water or eating raw shellfish, fruits, and vegetables from areas with poor sanitation.
- Close contact: Living with, caring for, or having sex with an infected person.
Symptoms
Not everyone with hepatitis A develops symptoms; they are more common and severe in adults than in children younger than six. If symptoms do appear, they typically start two to seven weeks after exposure and usually last less than two months, though they can persist for up to six months.
Symptoms can include:
- Fever and fatigue
- Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain or discomfort, especially near the liver
- Dark-colored urine and pale or clay-colored stools
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)
- Joint pain and itching
Diagnosis and Treatment
- Diagnosis is confirmed by a blood test that detects HAV-specific IgM antibodies, which indicate a current infection.
- There is no specific antiviral treatment for hepatitis A. Management focuses on supportive care to relieve symptoms, ensure adequate nutrition, and maintain hydration. Doctors recommend rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding alcohol and other substances that may damage the liver, such as acetaminophen, until fully recovered. In rare, severe cases, acute liver failure can occur, which may require hospitalization or a liver transplant.
Prevention
The most effective way to prevent hepatitis A is through vaccination and practicing good hygiene.
Vaccination
A safe and effective vaccine offering long-term immunity is available and typically administered as a two-shot series over several months. The CDC recommends vaccination for various groups, including children at age 1, international travelers, men who have sex with men, people who use recreational drugs, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those with chronic liver disease or HIV.
Hygiene
Good hygiene, especially thorough handwashing after using the bathroom and before handling food, is crucial. When traveling to high-risk areas, use bottled water and avoid potentially contaminated foods like raw shellfish.
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