What is Hepatitis A? 🦠🧑⚕️
Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV). It causes inflammation of the liver and affects its normal function.
How is Hepatitis A Transmitted?
- Mainly through the fecal-oral route: consuming food or water contaminated with feces from an infected person 💩➡️🍽️
- Close personal contact with an infected person
- Poor sanitation and hygiene increase the risk
Symptoms
- Fatigue and weakness 😴
- Fever and chills 🌡️
- Loss of appetite and nausea 🤢
- Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right side
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) 🟡
- Dark urine and pale stools
- Symptoms usually appear 2–6 weeks after exposure and last a few weeks to months
Diagnosis
- Blood tests to detect IgM antibodies specific to Hepatitis A virus
- Liver function tests to assess liver damage
Treatment
- No specific antiviral treatment
- Supportive care: rest, hydration, and a healthy diet
- Avoid alcohol and liver-toxic medications during recovery
Prevention 🛡️
- Hepatitis A vaccine provides effective protection 💉
- Practice good hand hygiene, especially after using the toilet and before eating 🧼
- Ensure safe drinking water and proper food handling
- Avoid consuming raw or undercooked shellfish from contaminated waters