Key points at a glance
🦠 Acute hepatitis
Hepatitis A is caused by the hepatitis A virus and usually clears up on its own.
🍽️ Broadcast
Hepatitis A can be transmitted via contaminated food, water or close contact.
💉 Vaccination protects
Vaccination is the most effective protection against hepatitis A.
🧪 Try it out
Hepatitis A is diagnosed by detecting antibodies in the blood.
What is hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is an acute inflammation of the liver. It is caused by the hepatitis A virus, or HAV for short.
Compared with other forms of viral hepatitis, hepatitis A is considered less serious. The infection almost always clears up on its own and does not usually cause any lasting damage. HAV is mainly transmitted via contaminated food or water. Close contact with infected people can also lead to infection.
Hepatitis A: Symptoms and Course of the Disease
The first symptoms may appear two to four weeks after infection. They often resemble flu. These may include fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, and headaches, muscle and joint pain. A feeling of pressure beneath the right rib cage may also occur. Some people also develop an aversion to fatty foods and alcohol.
As the condition progresses, the urine may turn dark, whilst the stools become lighter in colour. This is often accompanied by yellowing of the skin and eyes, as well as itching. Hepatitis A usually clears up on its own after a few weeks.
Hepatitis A infection
Hepatitis A is particularly common in warmer countries with poorer hygiene standards. In such places, the virus can be transmitted via contaminated water and food. This includes, for example, vegetables, fruit, shellfish and ice cream. In Germany, this route of transmission is normally rare. This is why hepatitis A is also known as „traveller’s hepatitis“.
Infection is also possible through drug use. This applies in particular to the sharing of syringes or accessories such as filters, spoons and water.
Hepatitis A can also be passed on during sex. The risk is particularly high when the mouth comes into contact with the anal area. Transmission via the hands is also possible if the virus is transferred from the anus to the mouth.
Preventing hepatitis A: The vaccine offers protection
The most effective protection against hepatitis A is vaccination. It is usually administered alongside the hepatitis B vaccine. Vaccination against hepatitis A and B is also recommended for people with HIV. Hepatitis can put additional strain on the liver. If the immune system is weakened, the body may not respond adequately to the vaccine. In such cases, a repeat vaccination with a higher dose may be necessary.
Anyone who has already had hepatitis A is subsequently immune and cannot be infected again.
Condoms do little to reduce the risk of hepatitis A infection.
Hepatitis A testing: How the infection is diagnosed
Hepatitis A can be diagnosed by means of a blood test. This involves taking a blood sample from a vein and testing it in a laboratory for antibodies to the hepatitis A virus.
If the test is carried out through your GP’s surgery, the result is usually available after about two to three days.
Treatment for hepatitis A
There is no treatment that acts directly against the hepatitis A virus. Treatment therefore focuses primarily on the general symptoms of the disease.
Whilst you have hepatitis A, you should minimise the strain on your liver as much as possible. This includes avoiding alcohol, drugs and any medication that is not absolutely necessary.
Frequently asked questions
How is hepatitis A transmitted?
Hepatitis A can be transmitted via contaminated water or food. It is also possible to become infected through close contact, drug use or sexual activity.
What symptoms can hepatitis A cause?
Symptoms may include fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, and headaches, muscle pain and joint pain. Later on, the colour of the urine and stools may change. Yellowing of the skin and eyes, as well as itching, may also occur.
How can I protect myself against hepatitis A?
Vaccination is the most effective form of protection. Condoms do little to reduce the risk of hepatitis A infection.
How is hepatitis A diagnosed?
The infection is diagnosed by means of a blood test. This involves testing for antibodies against the hepatitis A virus in the laboratory.
How is hepatitis A treated?
There is no treatment that targets the virus directly. Treatment focuses on managing the symptoms. Whilst you are ill, you should avoid alcohol, drugs and any medication that is not absolutely necessary.
