Hepatitis A
Several kinds of hepatitis virus can infect the liver and this leaflet is about hepatitis A (hep A), which is a particular problem in developing countries and other areas where sanitation may be poor.Fortunately there is a hepatitis A vaccine.
The hepatitis A virus is passed in the bowel motions of an infected person, which is why it is important to wash your hands after going to the toilet. In developing countries drinking water can be contaminated with the virus.
Fruit, vegetables and uncooked food washed in contaminated water can cause infection, especially in hot countries. Shellfish can be infected if it comes from sea where sewage is a problem. Cooked food is usually safe, but can be contaminated if it has been handled by someone with the virus.
Hepatitis A symptoms?
Approximately 15-50 days after picking up the virus, often once a holiday is over, people can experience early symptoms:
Hep A symptoms can include:
- Body weakness
- Weight loss/loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Temperature over 38°C or 100.4°F
This may be followed by jaundice, where the skin and eye whites appear yellow. Jaundice is a symptom of liver infection. Recovery takes about a month in young people, but some people are ill for many weeks. Unfortunately about 2% of those over 50 do not survive their infection.
What to do if you are worried that you’ve got hepatitis A
You should seek medical attention if you notice any of the signs and symptoms of hepatitis A.
If a MASTA travel health nurse has told you that hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for you, there is no doubt that your travel plans put you at risk from hepatitis A.
If they say you should consider hepatitis A vaccination you need to weigh-up the risk and cost of the vaccine against the potential risk of hepatitis A. Many people prefer to take no chances with their health.
MASTA nurse advice is based on:
- Up-to-date information on whether hepatitis A is a problem in the place you are travelling to
- Your chance of coming into contact with hepatitis A
- The medical facilities available if you were to become infected
- The duration of your stay
All travel vaccination recommendations can change because of disease outbreaks and seasonal variations, but MASTA nurses have access to daily updates and are specialists in travel health services.
Ideally, arrange your vaccinations at least two months before you travel
Hepatitis A vaccination can seem complicated because it can be given alone, or combined with hepatitis B or typhoid. Different vaccines are also available for children. A MASTA Nurse Expert will be able to tell you which version of the hepatitis A vaccine is suitable for you.
Depending on his or her recommendation, you will usually need to return to the clinic after 6-12 months for a booster for long-term hepatitis A immunity. A MASTA nurse will make sure you know when you need to return and keep a record of vaccine(s) you need.
If you have made your travel plans late and have less than two weeks before you travel, contact your MASTA Travel Clinic immediately. Vaccination is still worthwhile for last minute travellers.