Hepatitis A is a virus that affects the liver. It is most common among school-aged children and young adults.
How is Hepatitis A spread?
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- Usually by eating or drinking something that has been contaminated with the feces of someone with the virus.
- A partner with the virus can spread the virus to an uninfected person through sexual activities such as oral-anal contact.
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What are the symptoms?
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- Sudden onset of fever, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, clay-coloured stool, itchiness, tired and generally not feeling well. This is usually followed by jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) for adults.
- Illness varies from mild, lasting 1 to 2 weeks, to severe, lasting several months.
- More information on symptoms are available in our Hepatitis A fact sheet
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How is it treated?
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Treatment is at the discretion of your health care provider. There is no specific treatment. |
How is it prevented?
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- Vaccination is the best way to prevent infection. Call us to make an appointment 705-474-1400 ext. 5252.
- Good hand washing after using the bathroom, changing diapers, handling animals and before preparing or eating food.
- Those with Hepatitis A infection should avoid preparing food and sharing common food items with others.
- Wash all fruits and vegetables well, especially if eaten raw. Cook all seafood thoroughly.
- Do not drink water from an unsafe source.
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Should I go to childcare or work?
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- Healthcare workers, child care staff, food handlers or those attending child care should not go to work or child care.
- Those without jaundice should stay home for 14 days after the onset of symptoms. Those with jaundice should stay home 7 days after it starts.
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