| Frequently
Asked Questions |
What
is hepatitis A?
"Hepatitis" means inflammation or disease of the
liver. Hepatitis A is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis A
virus. In children the disease is usually mild, but
many adults who develop hepatitis A are ill enough to miss 4 to
6 weeks of work. Anyone who has not had hepatitis A before
can get hepatitis A, if exposed to the virus.
What
are the symptoms of hepatitis A?
The first symptoms would include fever, loss of appetite,
nausea, vomiting, tiredness, diarrhea or constipation, abdominal
pain, and just "not feeling well". Theses symptoms
may be followed in a few days by dark (brown or
"tea-colored") urine and jaundice (yellowing of the
skin and the whites of the eyes). Infected persons usually
feel better after 1-2 weeks, although they may continue to feel
tired for a few more weeks.
How
is the hepatitis A virus spread?
The hepatitis A virus is in the feces (stool) of infected
persons. For the disease to be spread to another person,
the hepatitis A virus must enter the mouth of a person that has
not had hepatitis A before. Poor personal hygiene after using
the rest room or changing diapers will contaminate the hands
with feces and the hepatitis A virus. The virus can then be
easily placed on foods or toys that will be placed in the mouth
of other people.
How
soon do symptoms appear?
The first symptoms usually appear about 1 month after a person
is exposed to the hepatitis A virus. However, the disease can
develop anytime between 2 to 6 weeks after infection.
How
long can an infected person spread the virus?
An infected person can spread the virus for 1-2 weeks before the
symptoms begin, and for about 2 weeks after dark urine, jaundice
or other "classic" hepatitis symptoms occur.
Who
is at risk of getting hepatitis A?
The persons at greatest risk of getting hepatitis A are the
household members, close friends/contacts, and sexual contacts
of a person with hepatitis A. People at school, work, or who
have brief, casual visits to the home of a infected person have
little risk of getting the disease. Persons that have had
hepatitis A in the past cannot get it again. Persons that are
vaccinated against hepatitis A cannot get the disease.
What
is the treatment for hepatitis A?
There are no special medicines that will help a person to
recover faster. Bed rest, drinking a lot of water, and eating a
good diet are important for recovery. Since hepatitis A affects
the liver, people with this disease should not drink alcohol or
take any drugs (including aspirin and Tylenol) without first
asking their doctor.
What
can be done to protect a person that has been exposed to
hepatitis A?
Immune globulin (IG) can be given to a person that has already
been exposed to the virus to prevent hepatitis A. IG is a
"shot". IG is recommended for all household members
and close (including sexual) contacts of a person with hepatitis
A. IG should be given as soon as possible and must be given
within 14 days after exposure the hepatitis A virus.
Are
there other ways to prevent the spread of hepatitis A?
The hepatitis A vaccine is safe and effective in preventing
hepatitis A. Contact the local county health department or a
physician for information about this vaccine. The spread
of hepatitis A can also be stopped by always washing hands
thoroughly with soap and warm water after using the toilet or
changing diapers. Children should be taught to always wash their
hands with soap after using the toilet. Washing hands before
preparing any food is very important.
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