Hepatitis A: Understanding the Main Symptoms and Prevention

Hepatitis A is a viral liver infection primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, often due to contaminated food or water. When an infected person's feces contain the virus, it can easily spread if proper hygiene isn't maintained. This transmission can occur when contaminated fecal matter gets into water supplies or food, leading to infection in others who consume it.

Common Symptoms of Hepatitis A

Most cases of Hepatitis A present as an acute illness, meaning it appears suddenly and lasts for a short period of time. Common symptoms include fatigue, loss of appetite, aversion to fatty foods, and jaundice — a yellowing of the skin and eyes. In more noticeable cases of jaundice, individuals may also experience dark-colored urine, which is a sign of elevated bilirubin levels in the blood.

Diagnosis and Medical Testing

If a blood test is performed, elevated levels of liver enzymes such as ALT and AST, along with increased bilirubin, may be observed. Additionally, the presence of IgM antibodies against Hepatitis A virus (anti-HAV IgM) confirms an active infection. A positive result for both liver enzyme abnormalities and these antibodies is typically sufficient for a definitive diagnosis.

What to Do After Diagnosis

Once diagnosed, patients should be placed under appropriate isolation, especially focusing on gastrointestinal precautions. Proper handling and disinfection of bodily waste are crucial to prevent further spread of the virus. Those who have had close contact with an infected individual should monitor themselves closely for symptoms like fatigue, nausea, sensitivity to oily foods, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Prevention Through Vaccination

Thankfully, there is a safe and effective vaccine available to prevent Hepatitis A infection. It is especially recommended for those at higher risk, including travelers to endemic regions, healthcare workers, and individuals in close contact with infected persons. If symptoms do appear, prompt medical attention and isolation are essential to minimize the risk of transmission and ensure timely treatment.