Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is one of the most common strains of Hepatitis, and is found in the feces of an infected person. It is spread as a result of poor personal hygiene and/or proper sanitation. One can become contract the Hepatitis A by eating food that has been prepared by one infected with the virus or by drinking Hepatitis A contaminated water. One can also contract Hepatitis A through close physical contact (i.e. sexual intercourse). Although some people do not experience symptoms, things to look out for are:

· A High Fever
· Nausea
· Fatigue
· Jaundice or Yellowing of Eyes and Skin
· Loss of Appetite
· Diarrhea
· Abdominal Pain
· Dark Urine

Symptoms usually last around six weeks, although there are those who remain ill for up to six months. A blood test should be taken to know for sure if one is infected. Hepatitis A has an average incubation period of 28 days.

A combination vaccine for prevention of both Hepatitis A and B is now available to the public for those aged 18 years or older (Twinrix). Otherwise, a Hepatitis A vaccine may be administered, or for short-term protection, an immune globulin injection may be given.