What Is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that strikes the liver. The virus causes the liver to become inflamed. Liver function is reduced. Waste that is normally excreted by the liver builds up in the blood. Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) usually results.

Hepatitis A is passed from person to person through contact with feces. You can get the virus from an infected child by changing a diaper or by having sexual contact with an infected person. Contaminated food and water can also spread the virus.

The virus is very common in developing countries. It also occurs in the US.

Symptoms include:

  • Jaundice
  • Fatigue
  • Abdominal pain or soreness
  • Lack of appetite
  • Nausea
  • Headache, chills

If you have been exposed to the virus and have not been vaccinated, a shot of the vaccine or immune globulin (IG) can prevent you from getting sick and from spreading the virus. Either shot should be given as soon as possible.

If you do get sick, lifestyle changes can reduce symptoms. If you suffer from fatigue, get plenty of rest. Maintain a healthy, balanced diet, and avoid alcohol.

At times, people with hepatitis A need to be hospitalized. Rarely, the infection can be fatal if the liver is damaged.

What Is the Hepatitis A Vaccine?

The vaccine contains a killed or inactivated form of the hepatitis A virus. It is given as an injection in the arm.

A combined vaccine that protects against both hepatitis A and B is also available.

Who Should Get Vaccinated and When?

The vaccine is recommended for all children aged 12 months. The two doses of the series are given 6 months apart. Children who have not been vaccinated can receive the shot at their next doctor's visit.

The following individuals should also get vaccinated:

  • Children aged 12 months or older in high-risk areas (The CDC's Traveler's Health website shows which areas have a high prevalence of hepatitis A.)
  • People traveling to areas where hepatitis A is prevalent
  • People who engage in anal sex
  • Drug users
  • People with chronic liver disease
  • People with blood-clotting disorders, like hemophilia
  • Children who live in areas where hepatitis A is prevalent
  • People who will have close contact with an adopted child from a medium- or high-risk area

In general, people who are traveling should get the first dose 2-4 weeks before leaving the US. Anytime before traveling is also okay.

What Are the Risks Associated With the Hepatitis A Vaccine?

There is a risk of severe allergic reaction, with symptoms such as:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Skin rash
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Dizziness
  • Wheezing

Less common moderate side effects include:

  • Soreness at the site of injection
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue

Who Should Not Get Vaccinated?

The following individuals should not get vaccinated:

  • Children under one year of age
  • Anyone who has already had hepatitis A
  • Anyone who has previously had a severe allergic reaction to the hepatitis A vaccine
  • Anyone who has previously had a severe allergic reaction to any component of the hepatitis A vaccine (including alum or 2-phenoxyethanol or neomycin)
  • Anyone who is ill (If you are sick, wait until you have recovered.)
  • Pregnant women

What Other Ways Can Hepatitis A Be Prevented Besides Vaccination?

  • Wash your hands with soap and water, especially after using the restroom or changing a diaper.
  • IG given before and after exposure is another way of preventing and treating the virus.
  • Twinrix is another vaccine that protects against both hepatitis A and B.

What Happens in the Event of an Outbreak?

If a food-borne outbreak occurrs, the source of the contaminated food will be identified and eliminated. In any hepatitis A outbreak, the affected community will get vaccinated to prevent the virus from spreading.