Hepatitis A is a common liver infection that still poses health risks worldwide. While it’s less prevalent in developed nations, outbreaks can occur through contaminated food, water, or close contact with an infected person. For travellers and communities alike, understanding how hepatitis A spreads, its symptoms, prevention methods, and vaccination options is crucial.
This guide covers everything you need to know about hepatitis A, including transmission routes, risk factors, symptoms, treatment, and prevention strategies.
What is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is an infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), which inflames the liver and affects how it functions. Unlike some other forms of hepatitis, hepatitis A does not usually cause chronic liver disease, but it can still lead to serious illness and discomfort.
The infection is highly contagious and spreads easily where sanitation and hygiene are poor. While many cases resolve on their own, awareness and prevention are essential.
How is Hepatitis A Transmitted?
One of the most searched questions is “how is hepatitis A transmitted?”. The virus is mainly spread through the faecal-oral route, meaning it enters the body when people consume food, drinks, or objects contaminated with tiny traces of infected faeces.
Common transmission routes:
Contaminated food or water – particularly raw shellfish, uncooked produce, or food washed in unclean water.
- Close contact with infected individuals – including sharing food, living together, or sexual contact (oral-anal sex is a known risk).
- Poor sanitation and hygiene – limited access to clean water, unwashed hands, or improper waste disposal.
- Food handling – food prepared by an infected person without proper hygiene.
- Rare cases – contaminated blood transfusions.
Key takeaway: The virus can survive for weeks outside the body, making transmission easy in crowded or unsanitary conditions.
Who is at Risk of Hepatitis A?
Anyone unvaccinated can catch hepatitis A. But certain groups face a higher risk:
- Travellers visiting regions with high infection rates (Africa, Asia, Central & South America).
- People without access to clean water or proper sanitation.
- Individuals living with someone infected.
- Men who have sex with men.
- People who use recreational drugs.
- Food industry workers in unsafe environments.
- Childcare workers and sewage workers.
- People with chronic liver disease.
Hepatitis A in Australia
While hepatitis A is uncommon in Australia due to good sanitation, travel remains a major risk factor. Many Australians contract hepatitis A abroad and bring it back unknowingly.
For example, Australia’s first major outbreak was linked to imported Medjool dates in 2021. This shows that even in low-prevalence countries, contaminated imported foods can pose risks.
Symptoms of Hepatitis A
Not everyone shows symptoms, especially children under six. But for others, symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Common signs include:
- Fever and fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal discomfort or pain
- Dark urine
- Pale stools
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
Note: Adults are more likely than children to develop noticeable symptoms. In rare cases, hepatitis A can relapse weeks later before full recovery.
How Long Does Hepatitis A Last?
- Symptoms usually appear 15–50 days after exposure.
- Illness may last 2–6 weeks, but some cases extend up to several months.
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Recovery is common, and once recovered, individuals gain lifelong immunity.
Hepatitis A Treatment
There is no specific cure for hepatitis A. The body clears the infection on its own, but supportive care is essential.
Recommended management:
- Rest and hydration.
- Avoiding alcohol and substances that strain the liver (e.g., paracetamol, acetaminophen).
- Eating a balanced diet.
- Following medical advice for ongoing monitoring.
For individuals who need tailored medicines or supportive care options, specialised compounding pharmacy services can sometimes play a role in managing related health needs under professional guidance.
How to Prevent Hepatitis A
Since there’s no direct cure, prevention is the best defence.
Practical prevention tips:
- Wash hands with soap and water before eating or after using the toilet.
- Drink only bottled or boiled water when travelling to high-risk areas.
- Avoid raw seafood and uncooked produce in regions with poor sanitation.
- Practice safe sex.
- Ensure proper waste disposal and sewage systems.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
The hepatitis A vaccine is the most reliable protection against the virus.
- Can be given from 12 months of age.
- Usually requires two doses, six months apart, for long-term immunity.
- Provides protection around two weeks after the first dose.
- Safe with only mild side effects (e.g., headache, fatigue).
In Australia:
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Under the National Immunisation Program, the vaccine is free for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
- Other groups recommended for vaccination include:
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- Travellers to high-risk regions
- Sewage and childcare workers
- Health workers
- People with chronic liver disease
- Men who have sex with men
- Drug users
Conclusion
Hepatitis A remains a global concern, but it is highly preventable. Understanding how hepatitis A spreads, recognising symptoms, and taking preventive measures can protect individuals and communities.
Whether you’re a traveller heading overseas or simply want to safeguard your health, vaccination and hygiene are the strongest tools against hepatitis A. By staying informed, you not only protect yourself but also help prevent the spread to others.
Key FAQs on Hepatitis A
Q1: How is hepatitis A transmitted?
Through contaminated food, water, or close contact with an infected person.
Q2: Can hepatitis A spread in Australia?
Yes, although rare. Imported contaminated food or international travel can trigger outbreaks.
Q3: How long does hepatitis A last?
Most people recover within weeks, but fatigue may linger for months.
Q4: Is hepatitis A preventable?
Yes, through vaccination, good hygiene, and safe food practices.
Written By
Zen Xiao
