Hepatitis A

What is it ?

Hepatitis A (formerly known as infectious hepatitis) is a viral infection of the liver caused by the HAV virus. The length of illness may vary.

Disease transmission

HAV is caught by contact with water or food that is contaminated by human feces.

Geographic risk zone

Hepatitis A, countries or areas at risk

Data source: World Health Organization

Symptoms description

Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice) as well as darkened urine
General symptoms including fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, etc.
Stomach pains

Health impact

Hepatitis A is a serious disease but is not life-threatening. Convalescence can be long and difficult, but most people who contract the disease will recover fully. It is more severe in people age 50 or over.

Risks

According to Health Canada, 484 cases of HAV were reported in Canada in 2000.
Major studies show that vaccination against hepatitis A will protect you 97% to 99% of the time.

Prevention

Most people who are infected with hepatitis A recover in a normal fashion. Vaccination against the virus remains your best protection. In addition, you should wash your hands thoroughly before and after preparing and/or eating food.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that all travellers consult a travel health specialist before they go abroad. Your specialist will be able to advise you about various resources and options available so you can protect yourself effectively.

Vaccination : hepatitis a

Yes

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Recommended products

Hand disinfectant

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Nota Bene

Hepatitis A is one of the most common forms of hepatitis worldwide…including Canada.
This disease is widespread and continually present in all developing countries.
Apart from care to relieve the symptoms, there is no treatment against hepatitis A.