Hepatitis A: symptoms and prevention of the disease of unwashed hands

Hepatitis A is a common infectious liver disease that is often underestimated because of its mild course in children. However, in adults, this disease can cause serious complications. In this article, we will tell you what the main symptoms of hepatitis A are, how to recognize it in time, and what to do to avoid getting infected.

What is hepatitis A and how is it transmitted?

Hepatitis A is an acute infectious disease of the liver caused by the Hepatitis A Virus (HAV). It is most often transmitted by the fecal-oral route: through contaminated water, food, dirty hands, and household contact with a sick person.

Although the virus has been known since childhood, adults are more likely to get sick today due to the loss of collective immunity. And the older the infected person, the more severe the course can be.

The hepatitis A virus is highly resistant to the environment: it can survive on surfaces, in water, and food at room temperature for several weeks. This makes infection especially dangerous in crowded places with poor sanitation.

Another feature is that the virus does not cause a chronic disease, but the active phase can last from 2 to 8 weeks, and even after the symptoms disappear, the liver needs time to fully recover.

Symptoms of hepatitis A that require you to see a doctor

The incubation period of hepatitis A is 2–6 weeks. The first symptoms are often masked as acute respiratory viral infections or poisoning:

• general weakness, apathy;

• fever (up to 38 °C);

• nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain;

• loss of appetite;

• dark urine, light stools;

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes) - appears a few days after the first symptoms.

In children, the disease often passes easily, without jaundice. In adults, it is the opposite: a protracted course, liver complications, and long-term rehabilitation.

Source: freepik

What makes hepatitis A a relevant threat today?

1. Outbreaks in peaceful and war-torn regions

Reduced access to clean water, lack of hygiene products, and evacuation conditions are the perfect environment for the HAV virus.

2. There is no chronic form — but that doesn't mean it's safe

Although hepatitis A does not become chronic, it can seriously damage the liver, especially in people with chronic diseases, increased stress on the body, or after chemotherapy.

3. Vaccination is an underrated opportunity

In Ukraine, the hepatitis A vaccine is not included in the mandatory vaccination schedule, but is available to those who wish. It is especially recommended for children before school or kindergarten, travelers, military personnel, medical personnel, and food industry workers.

Risk groups - who is in the zone of increased attention?

• Preschool and primary school children (due to poor hygiene and close contact in children's groups);

• People who live or work in places with poor sanitary conditions (including military personnel, refugees, travelers);

• Food industry workers and healthcare workers;

• Patients with chronic liver disease, which may have a complicated course.

Source: freepik

Hepatitis A Prevention: What Everyone Can Do

Follow basic hygiene rules:

• hand washing after using the toilet and before eating;

• processing of vegetables and fruits before consumption;

• drinking only clean or boiled water.

Avoid eating in questionable places:

• especially in the summer, during travel or festivals.

Choose vaccination:

• for children - optimally from 1 year;

• for adults - before traveling or in high-risk situations.

Do not self-medicate:

• at the first symptoms - consult a doctor;

• The liver does not hurt, but its damage can be fatal.

Hepatitis A vaccination - how does it work?

The vaccine contains an inactivated virus that stimulates immunity without the risk of getting sick. Two doses are usually given 6-12 months apart. After a full course, the effectiveness of protection lasts for at least 10 years.

Vaccination is recommended before traveling to high-risk areas, as well as for children and adults in at-risk groups. It is the most reliable way to avoid infection.

Source: freepik

After an illness: how to support the body

Hepatitis A does not leave the virus in the body, but the liver needs to recover. During the rehabilitation period, it is important to:

• abstain from alcohol;

• adhere to a sparing diet (table No. 5);

• limit physical activity;

• avoid medications that put a strain on the liver.

Hepatitis A is a signal about the importance of hygiene and vigilance. Although it is easy to avoid, the disease is still spreading due to non-compliance with basic rules and lack of prevention. To stay healthy, it is enough to start with something simple - washing your hands and taking care of yourself every day.