Hepatitis A Virus

How does it spread?

Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) is spread when someone ingests the virus, even in very small amounts. This usually occurs through person-to-person contact or by eating or drinking contaminated food or drink. For this reason, hepatitis A is more easily spread in locations and situations where there are poor sanitary conditions or where standard handwashing practices are not observed. Most infections result from close contact with a hepatitis A-infected household member, especially young children who may show little clinical evidence of infection. Hepatitis A can also be spread by having sex with someone who has the virus.

HAV in Pennsylvania

• Hepatitis A surveillance data in Pennsylvania 2013 - 2022
• Contact the The PA Department of Health for further questions

How do I know if I have it?

If exposed to HAV, symptoms typically appear within 2 to 7 weeks, however not everyone will have symptoms. Someone with HAV can spread the virus as much as two weeks before showing symptoms.

Symptoms could include:

• Jaundice – Yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Loss of appetite
• Upset stomach
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Dark urine or light-colored stools
• Diarrhea
• Joint pain
• Fatigue

Who is at increased risk?

Anyone who has not been vaccinated against hepatitis A or had hepatitis A in the past can become infected with hepatitis A virus and develop illness. The following groups of people are more often affected by hepatitis A:

• People with direct contact with someone who has hepatitis A;
• Travelers to countries where hepatitis A is common;
• People who live with a person infected with hepatitis A;
• People who use injected or noninjected illicit drugs;
• People experiencing homelessness;
• Men who have sexual contact with other men;
• Household members or caregivers of a recent adoptee from countries where hepatitis A is common;
• People working with nonhuman primates; and
• People with clotting-factor disorder, such as hemophilia.

How is it treated?

There is no cure for HAV. Symptoms are treated until the virus leaves the body. Once someone is exposed to HAV, they cannot be infected again. People sick with symptoms of hepatitis A should:

• Get plenty of rest
• Eat a healthy diet
• Stay hydrated
• Avoid alcohol
• Consult your health care provider before taking any medications, including over-the-counter drugs.

How can it be prevented?

The best way to prevent hepatitis A is through vaccination with the hepatitis A vaccine. Vaccination is recommended for all children, travelers to certain countries and people at high risk for infection or complications (e.g., those with liver disease). In light of recent outbreaks, current recommendations include vaccination for those experiencing homelessness, people who use injected and noninjected illegal drugs, and men who have sex with men. Hepatitis A can also be prevented by washing your hands after using the bathroom or changing a diaper, and before preparing or eating food.

There are two types of HAV vaccine: a two-shot series 6 months apart OR a combination vaccine preventing both hepatitis A and B given in 3-doses over the course of 6 months. To find a vaccine clinic near you, call 1-800-PA-HEALTH.