Hepatitis A (HAV)

Transmission

• Primarily passed by the fecal (human feces) -oral route, through person-to-person contact.
• Passed by exposure to infected/contaminated food and water.

At-Risk Groups

• Someone who shares a bathroom or kitchen with someone infected with HAV.
• Someone who lives or travels to areas where Hepatitis A is common.
• Someone who has anal contact during sex with someone who is HAV infected.
• Someone who works in or attends daycare or other places where people need diapers and/or help with toileting.

If you are at-risk for hepatitis A infection, contact your doctor. Early diagnosis will help prevent spreading the disease and protect your liver.

What you should do

to avoid Viral Hepatitis

• Get a preventive Hepatitis A & B vaccine series.
• Wash hands after using the toilet or changing diapers.
• Wash hands before preparing food.
• Use gloves if touching blood or body fluids.
• Practice safer sex (more)

If you think you have been exposed to Viral Hepatitis

• Contact your primary care physician to get tested.
• Immune Globulin (IG) may be recommended for household members and others in close contact with a Hepatitis infected person..

If you are infected

• Rest
• Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages
• Only take medications approved by your physician.
• Eat healthy food.
• Get regular check-ups.
• Cover your cuts or open sores.
• Practice safer sex (more)