Prevention of Hepatitis A infection

 

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. One type, hepatitis A, is caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). The disease spreads through contact with an infected person's stool. The liver is the largest organ inside the body and helps the body digest food, store energy, and remove poisons.

 

 

Common causes of hepatitis A include:

1. Eating food made by an infected person who did not wash their hands after using the bathroom.

2. Drinking untreated water or eating food washed in untreated water.

3. Putting into your mouth a finger or object that came into contact with an infected person's stool.

4. Having close contact with an infected person, such as through sex or caring for someone who is ill.

 

 

Most people do not have any symptoms. You may get flu-like symptoms. Other common symptoms are yellowish eyes and skin (called jaundice).

 

 

Your doctor may recommend a blood test to diagnose the presence of HAV.

 

 

HAV usually gets better in a few weeks without treatment. However, some people can have symptoms for up to 6 months. Your doctor may suggest medicines to help relieve your symptoms.

 

 

1. Vaccination can also prevent HAV

2. Practice lifestyle changes such as:

a) Good hygiene

b) Wash your hands thoroughly before preparing food.

c) Wash your hands after using the toilet, or after changing a diaper.

d) Travelers should be careful about drinking tap water.