What are the causes of hepatitis A?

The most common cause of hepatitis A is ingestion of contaminated food or water. The virus can also be spread through contact with an infected person's feces or blood. Some of the specific causes of hepatitis A infection include:

Consuming contaminated food or water: Hepatitis A virus is commonly transmitted through the ingestion of food or water contaminated with the feces of an infected person. This can occur when food is handled by someone who is infected with hepatitis A or if food or water is contaminated with sewage or wastewater containing the virus. Contaminated food items can include raw or undercooked shellfish, unwashed fruits or vegetables, and food and beverages prepared by an infected person without proper hand hygiene.

Contact with an infected person: Hepatitis A virus can be spread through direct contact with the feces or blood of an infected person. This can occur during activities such as sharing toothbrushes, razors, or other personal items with someone who is infected. It can also be transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person.

Poor sanitation and hygiene: Inadequate sanitation and poor hygiene practices can contribute to the spread of hepatitis A virus. This includes not washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the bathroom and before handling food, not properly cooking food, and drinking untreated or contaminated water.

Travel to high-risk areas: Travel to certain countries or regions with high rates of hepatitis A infection can increase the risk of exposure to the virus. These areas include many parts of Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

Contact with infected animals: In rare cases, hepatitis A virus can be transmitted through contact with infected animals, such as monkeys or chimpanzees. This can occur through bites or scratches from infected animals or through contact with their bodily fluids.