Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). It spreads primarily through consumption of food or water contaminated by feces from an infected person. The symptoms of hepatitis A can range from mild to severe and typically include fatigue, nausea, stomach pain, and jaundice, which is a yellowing of the skin and eyes. Unlike other forms of hepatitis, hepatitis A does not lead to long-term liver problems and is not chronic.
Hepatitis A is preventable through vaccination and improved sanitation and hygiene practices. Good personal hygiene, such as regular handwashing, and avoiding unsafe food and water, are effective ways to reduce the risk of infection. Although there’s no specific treatment for hepatitis A, most people recover completely within a few weeks to months, often without long-term effects.
Awareness and vaccination, especially when traveling to areas where the virus is more common, are important steps in preventing the spread of hepatitis A in the community. Health professionals recommend vaccination for people at higher risk of infection, such as those traveling to certain countries or living in areas with poor sanitation.
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