Hepatitis A: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
Learn about hepatitis A, its symptoms, transmission, and prevention. Understand how it spreads, who is at risk, and the importance of vaccination. Read the full blog for detailed insights on protecting yourself and others.
Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025
It is an extremely contagious viral infection affecting the liver, caused by hepatitis A virus (HAV). It leads to inflammation in the liver, which can disrupt its normal functions. While the infection typically resolves on its own without the need for treatment, it can still cause discomfort and temporary health issues.
In most cases, hepatitis A is short-term with mild symptoms. However, the infection can be transmitted to others even before symptoms appear, which makes it easier to spread unknowingly. Despite being generally self-limiting, it’s important to take preventive measures.
Features of Hepatitis A Virus (HAV)
Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is a non-enveloped RNA virus transmitted primarily through the fecal-oral route, either via direct contact with an infected person or by consuming contaminated food or water. It can survive in the environment for long periods, including in frozen foods and ice.
Common sources of transmission include raw or undercooked foods, especially those contaminated during production, processing, or handling.
Recent outbreaks have been linked to frozen berries, seafood, and person-to-person spread, particularly among people experiencing homelessness or those using drugs.
Infected individuals shed HAV in their faeces and are most contagious 1–2 weeks before symptoms appear when the virus is most concentrated.
Children can shed the virus for up to six months after infection, continuing the potential for transmission.
Transmission risk decreases after symptoms start, coinciding with the development of antibodies.
Transmission of Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is caused by the hepatitis A virus, which spreads primarily through contact with the stool of an infected person. You can contract the virus by:
Eating food prepared by someone with the virus who has not properly washed their hands after using the toilet.
Drinking contaminated water or consuming food that has been rinsed with unsafe water.
Having close personal contact with someone infected with hepatitis A, such as through certain sexual activities (including oral-anal sex), caring for someone who is ill, or sharing illegal drugs.
Who Is at Risk of Getting Hepatitis A?
Anyone who has not been vaccinated or previously infected is susceptible to hepatitis A. In areas where the virus is common, most cases are seen in young children. Those at higher risk include people living in conditions with:
Poor sanitation
Lack of safe drinking water
Close contact with an infected person
Sexual contact with someone who has acute hepatitis A
Use of recreational drugs
Sexual activity between men
Travel to regions with high rates of the virus without vaccination
What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis A?
Not everyone with hepatitis A experiences symptoms, and adults are more likely to show signs of infection than children. If symptoms do occur, they typically appear 2 to 7 weeks after exposure to the virus. Common symptoms include:
Dark yellow urine
Diarrhoea
Fatigue
Fever
Grey- or clay-coloured stools
Joint pain
Loss of appetite
Nausea and/or vomiting
Abdominal pain
Jaundice
The symptoms usually last for less than 2 months, although some individuals may remain unwell for up to 6 months. People with HIV, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C are at a higher risk of experiencing more severe symptoms from hepatitis A.
Diagnosis of Hepatitis A
To diagnose hepatitis A, your healthcare provider may use several methods, including:
Noting down medical history and your symptoms
Conducting a physical examination
Performing blood tests, including tests for viral hepatitis
It can be difficult to distinguish hepatitis A from other types of acute viral hepatitis based solely on symptoms. A specific diagnosis is made by detecting HAV-specific immunoglobulin G (IgM) antibodies in the blood. Further testing, such as reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), may also be used to detect the hepatitis A virus RNA, though these tests typically require specialised laboratory facilities and are costly.
Treatment of Hepatitis A
There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A. Recovery from symptoms can be slow, often taking several weeks or even months. It is important to avoid taking unnecessary medications that may harm the liver, such as acetaminophen or paracetamol.
Hospitalisation is generally not required unless acute liver failure occurs. Treatment focuses on maintaining comfort and ensuring adequate nutrition, which may include replacing fluids lost due to vomiting and diarrhoea.
Prevention Strategies for Hepatitis A
Improved sanitation, food safety, and immunisation are the most effective methods to prevent hepatitis A.
The spreading of hepatitis A can be condensed by:
Ensuring access to safe drinking water
Properly disposing of sewage within communities
Practising good personal hygiene, such as washing hands regularly before eating and after using the toilet
Several injectable inactivated hepatitis A vaccines are available globally, all providing similar protection and having comparable side effects. However, no vaccine is approved for use in children under 1 year of age.
The hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for:
All children aged 12–23 months
All children and adolescents aged 2–18 years who have not yet been vaccinated
All individuals, including pregnant people, who are at increased risk of hepatitis A
What Are the Complications of Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A typically doesn’t lead to complications such as cirrhosis, as most people recover before the virus can cause significant liver damage. However, in rare cases, individuals with hepatitis A may develop liver failure. The risk is higher if you are:
Aged 65 or older
Taking immunosuppressive medications
Living with pre-existing chronic liver disease
Conclusion
Hepatitis A is rarely life-threatening, though its symptoms can last for weeks or even months. If you have hepatitis A, you may experience significant fatigue and discomfort. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional if you're concerned about spreading the virus. They can confirm whether you are still contagious and advise on measures to prevent transmission. The hepatitis A vaccine or an injection of immunoglobulin within two weeks of exposure can help protect against infection.
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