Customer question:
What is hepatitis A? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Hepatitis A is an infectious liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). This virus is usually transmitted through contaminated food or water but can also be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person. Hepatitis A is not associated with a chronic infection and is usually treated with rest and a healthy diet.
Hepatitis A often occurs in countries with inadequate sanitation and insufficient water supply. In developed countries, due to vaccination and improved hygiene standards, the incidence of hepatitis A is lower.
Does hepatitis A also occur in Slovenia?
Hepatitis A also occurs in Slovenia, although cases of this disease are less common in developed countries, including Slovenia than in countries with lower hygiene standards. Vaccination against hepatitis A, an essential preventive strategy for reducing the incidence of the disease, has been introduced in Slovenia.
Transmission of hepatitis A is associated with inadequate sanitation, contaminated food and water, and close contact with an infected person. Even though cases of hepatitis A are less common in Slovenia, there is still a risk of an outbreak of this disease, especially for people who travel to countries with a higher risk or have unprotected contact with infected persons.
Preventive measures are implemented in Slovenia, including routine vaccination of children and adults with a higher risk of infection. In addition, measures to maintain high hygiene standards are essential, especially when preparing food and caring for personal hygiene. Individuals who travel to countries with a higher incidence of hepatitis A or are at increased risk of infection may consult their physician about vaccination and other preventive measures. In case of suspicious symptoms that could indicate hepatitis A, it is essential to consult a doctor.
Can hepatitis A be deadly?
Hepatitis A is usually an acute illness and is rarely fatal. Most people who get hepatitis A make a full recovery, so the disease does not cause permanent liver damage. In healthy people, symptoms usually improve within a few weeks to a few months. Fatal outcomes are infrequent but can occur in people with pre-existing liver disease or other serious medical conditions. The risk of a more severe course of the disease increases in older people and those with chronic liver diseases.
It is important to emphasize that most cases of hepatitis A can be prevented by vaccination. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective means of preventing infection. Routine vaccination of children has been introduced in many countries; vaccination is also recommended for adults at increased risk of infection. If hepatitis A infection is suspected, or if a person develops symptoms such as jaundice, severe fatigue, abdominal pain, and dark urine, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Early recognition and treatment can contribute to a better outcome of the disease.
What are the symptoms of hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A symptoms can vary from person to person and include varying degrees of severity. Some people, especially children, can get over the infection with no or mild symptoms. In others, the disease can cause more severe symptoms. It is essential to know that hepatitis A is an acute liver disease that usually does not cause permanent liver damage.
Typical symptoms of hepatitis A include:
- Fatigue: Severe fatigue often occurs and may be one of the first signs.
- Loss of appetite: the person may lose interest in food and experience a lack of appetite.
- Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and occasional vomiting are common symptoms.
- Abdominal pain: pain may occur in the upper part of the abdomen, where the liver is located.
- Dark urine: Urine may become darker than usual.
- Light-colored stools may become lighter, which is a sign of bile secretion disorders.
- Jaundice: Jaundice is one of the characteristics of hepatitis A. The skin and whites of the eyes turn yellow due to increased bilirubin in the blood.
- Burning or joint pain: burning or joint pain may occur.
Symptoms usually appear after an incubation period of 15 to 50 days after exposure to the virus. Symptoms often go away within a few weeks to a few months, but fatigue and nausea may last longer. It is essential to consult a doctor to confirm the diagnosis and treatment in case of suspicious symptoms.
Who should vaccinate against hepatitis A?
The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for different groups, especially those at increased risk of infection or developing severe complications. Vaccination guidelines may vary by geographic area and other factors.
Generally recommended hepatitis A vaccination groups include:
- Travelers: Persons traveling to countries with a high risk of hepatitis A should consider vaccination, especially if traveling to areas with limited access to clean drinking water and hygienic conditions.
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- People with a higher risk of infection: this includes people who work in a household with an infected person, men who have sex with other men, and people who use drugs and have an increased risk of exposure to the virus.
- Persons with liver disease: Individuals with certain liver diseases, including hepatitis B or C, may be at increased risk of a more severe course of the disease if they become infected with hepatitis A. Vaccination is recommended for them.< /li>
- Persons working in healthcare professions: healthcare workers and others exposed to patients or body fluids may consider vaccination.
- Individuals planning to adopt a child: Individuals planning to adopt a child from countries with a high risk of hepatitis A should consider vaccination.
- Persons with compromised immune systems: People with weak immune systems, including those receiving chemotherapy or immunosuppressive drugs, are more susceptible to severe complications from hepatitis A infection. The vaccine also makes sense for these individuals.
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Interesting reading: Hepatitis A vaccination
