Hepatitis A is a virus that affects the liver, transmitted via the faeces of an infected person. It can also be transmitted by drinking unclean water, eating food washed or grown in unclean water, eating food that’s been handled by someone with the infection or by having close physical contact with an infected person.
Although the virus isn’t common in the UK, it can be found elsewhere, such as in some parts of Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Central and South America.
The best way to prevent hepatitis A is by having a vaccination against it. These vaccines are not offered routinely here in the UK because the risk of contracting the virus is so low but if you are travelling to a high-risk area, it would be advisable to have the vaccine.
You can also help control the risks when travelling by drinking bottled water, washing your hands well before preparing and eating food, not eating shellfish and any uncooked fruit and vegetables and using barrier contraceptive methods when having intercourse.
Other reasons to consider having the vaccine include if you’ve been in close physical contact with an infected person, if your job increases your risk of infection (such as if you’re a healthcare professional or a sewage worker), or if you have a blood clotting disorder.
Typically, cases of hepatitis A will resolve themselves and clear up without intervention within three to six months. You may be given medication to help manage your symptoms, such as treatments to prevent nausea or itchiness.
In some rare cases, liver problems may manifest themselves. In this instance, blood tests may be required in order to monitor how well your liver is working over time.
