Hepatitis A Facts

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious viral liver inflammation. The disease can last up to several months, but does not lead to chronic liver infection like other types of hepatitis do. A vaccine is available to prevent this disease.

Frequency

• As of 2009, in the United States, about 3,000 to 4,000 cases of hepatitis A are reported each year, according to the Oregon Department of Human Services.

Symptoms

• Some people, particularly children, may have no symptoms. Those who do may experience fever, fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, dark urine and jaundice. The Indiana State Department of Health notes that between 0.1 and 0.3 percent of patients with hepatitis A die from the disease.

Contagion

• Hepatitis A virus is spread by fecal contamination. It may result from consuming contaminated food or beverages, or being in close contact with an infected person.

Risk Factors

• Travelers to regions where the disease is more common, such as South America, Africa and the Middle East, should be vaccinated. Also at higher risk are men having sex with men, anyone living in the same household as someone with hepatitis A, and drug users.

Recovery

• Hepatitis A usually resolves on its own, with bed rest as needed. The Indiana State Department of Health shows that about 33 of 100 people with this disease are hospitalized. Once an individual recovers, he has lifetime immunity.