4 Things To Know About Hepatitis A

This time of year, most everyone is worried about catching the flu, but there is another virus you should be watching out for – Hepatitis A. Hepatitis A is a virus that infects the liver and is highly contagious and easily transmittable. Because the body clears it on its own, treatment is limited, but we are here to teach you everything you need to know about the virus and how to prevent it:

How can it be treated? – There is no treatment for the virus itself, but you can treat the symptoms. You can treat nausea and fever with anti-nausea medications, fluids, and fever reducers.

How can it be prevented? – The number one way to prevent this is to wash your hands! It is important to wash your hands before and after you go to the bathroom. Hand sanitizer works, but soap and water has proven to be the best. Also, to prevent Hepatitis A, always prepare your food appropriately, make sure it is cooked to the correct temperature and has been refrigerated properly. Another great way to prevent Hepatitis A is to get your vaccination!

How can I get Hepatitis A? – The most common Hepatitis A is transmitted is through the fecal to oral route, meaning if someone doesn’t wash their hands well after using the bathroom and stool contaminates their hand it can then be passed onto anything they touch and make its way through the oral route. Hepatitis A can also be transmitted is through undercooked, spoiled or contaminated foods.

What are my symptoms? – The symptoms of Hepatitis A can last anywhere between a few weeks and several months but the typical time is two months. Symptoms of Hepatitis A include nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, fatigue, and in some cases dark urine or jaundice.

To make an appointment to get your Hepatitis A shot contact any of the Coplin Health Systems Providers offices! We are happy to help you prevent this virus.