Hepatitis A

Virus - Hepatitis A

Symptoms - Fever, fatigue, diarrhea, dark urine, abdominal pain, jaundice, loss of appetite, nausea

Sources - There are many different modes of transmission.  As it relates to food, outbreaks have been linked to contaminated food from infected food workers, contaminated water, and contaminated fruits and vegetables.  The Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) is present in the feces of infected individuals, and is spread from person to person when an individual consumes something that has been contaminated with the infected feces.

Incubation Period - Symptoms begin to be exhibited anywhere from 15-50 days after exposure to the virus.  On average, symptoms develop about a month (28-30days) after exposure.

Duration of Illness - Symptoms will last around 2 months, and some individuals will experience relapsing symptoms for up to 9 months.

Treatment - Passive immunization should be given as soon as possible after exposure, but within two weeks.

Prevention - There is a vaccine available that will prevent you from becoming infected with the Hepatitis A virus.  Once an individual becomes infected with the virus, they will not become infected again.

For more information about Hepatitis A, Click Here

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