Transmission Routes of Hepatitis A Virus

Hepatitis A virus is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, which means it spreads via the digestive system. The main sources of infection are individuals who are infected with Hepatitis A or those who carry the virus without showing symptoms. The virus is mainly found in the feces of infected individuals, meaning that fecal matter can contain high levels of the virus. Notably, infected individuals can begin shedding the virus even before they show any clinical symptoms, starting from the end of the incubation period and continuing for up to 30 to 40 days after the onset of symptoms.

When fecal matter contaminates the surrounding environment, it can easily pollute water sources or food through the fecal-oral route. This can occur through direct contact, such as unwashed hands contaminating food or water, or indirectly through insects like flies that transfer the virus to food. Once the virus enters the food supply or water sources, it can lead to widespread outbreaks. Water contamination, in particular, has been linked to large-scale Hepatitis A epidemics. Therefore, maintaining proper sanitation and hygiene practices is crucial in preventing the transmission of this virus.