Hepatitis A

by Advanced GI WA

Hepatitis A is one of several different hepatitis viruses that can cause liver infections and damage. Anyone can be infected with hepatitis A if they come in direct contact with food, drinks or objects contaminated by the faeces of an infected person.

Hepatitis A is a viral disease that affects the liver. Children younger than age 6 often have no symptoms. Older children and adults often get flu-like symptoms, abdominal pain, diarrhoea and may develop jaundice.

Hepatitis A usually gets better in a few weeks without treatment. One infection of hepatitis A will give you lifelong protection.

Immunisation against hepatitis A includes a course of injections over six to 12 months. Hepatitis A immunisation is a good idea for people travelling to places where the disease is common, or to places where hygiene standards are poor.

The vaccine may also be recommended for childcare workers, men who have sex with men, people with liver problems, food handlers and injecting drug users.