Hepatitis A
What is Hepatitis A?​​
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Hepatitis A is an infection of the liver that is caused by hepatitis A virus (HAV). HAV is primarily found in stool and can be spread to people through contaminated foods, water, and drinks.
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The Hepatitis A virus causes inflammation of the liver.
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Hepatitis A virus is very infectious, and small amounts of HAV can cause infections.
What is at risk of Hepatitis A?​​​
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Travellers to Hepatitis A endemic countries as 44-54% of HA cases in Canada are linked to travel
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Men who have sex with men (MSM)
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Close contacts of children adopted from HA-endemic countries
What are symptoms of Hepatitis A?​​​
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Some people may not present with symptoms while others may have stomach pain, fatigue, nausea and jaundice and symptoms may last up to 2 months in some cases.
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Majority of the cases of infection are self-limiting, and some patients recover completely with supportive treatment.
How to avoid catching Hepatitis A?​​​​
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Make sure you are eating and drinking in a clean, good quality place while traveling since HAV can be picked up from contaminated food and water especially in areas with poor sanitation.
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Drink bottle water or water you know that has been properly treated or sanitized.
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Hot cooked food is a better choice than raw food
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Peel fruits and vegetables yourself
What about the Hepatitis A vaccine?​​​
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The hepatitis A vaccine provides protection from this virus, and vaccinations are typically 2 doses given 6 months apart.
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Research shows that vaccination can provide protection for 40 years or more.