Protecting Yourself from Hepatitis A

We are still enjoying the benefits of summer in most parts of the country. The late evening daylight, the sun on our skin (don’t forget your sunscreen) and of course water activities. Protecting yourself from Hepatitis A is such an important thing and this article will explain the ins and outs of that plus give some information on the disease.

Many people in various parts of the world experience monsoon season from April-September leaving more open time for heavy rainfalls and the possibility of water contamination. As winter ends, warm, moist air from the southwest Indian Ocean blows toward countries like India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. The summer monsoon brings a humid climate and torrential rainfall to these areas. India and Southeast Asia depend on the summer monsoon. During the monsoon, the risk of hepatitis rises due to water contamination and inadequate sanitation.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hepatitis A transmission is primarily through the fecal-oral route, meaning individuals ingest the virus through food or water that is contaminated with the feces of a person with the virus.

Swimming or bathing in contaminated water sources, such as rivers or lakes, can also pose a risk of hepatitis A transmission, especially if the water is polluted with sewage containing the virus.

Hepatitis A infection is more common in countries with poor sanitary conditions and hygienic practices, where up to 90% of children contract the hepatitis A virus before the age of 10.

However, the likelihood of contracting the virus through drinking water is relatively low in developed countries with robust sanitation systems.

HAV causes hepatitis A infection. HAV belongs to the Picornaviridae family. The WHO estimates that in 2022, at least 1.7 billion people consumed drinking water from a source containing feces.

The virus is highly contagious, and transmission can occur in several ways. This can include:

1. Consumption of contaminated food or water: Consuming food or water contaminated with HAV is a common mode of transmission. This includes drinking untreated water or eating food that someone has washed in untreated water.
2. Close contact with someone who has hepatitis A infection: HAV can also spread through close personal contact, such as through sexual activity with someone with the virus.
3. Poor hygiene practices: Inadequate handwashing, especially after using the bathroom or changing diapers, can contribute to the spread of HAV.
4. Contaminated objects: Infection can occur if an individual touches their mouth, nose, or eyes after touching objects or surfaces contaminated with the virus.

While hepatitis A is highly contagious, it is important to note that individuals cannot contract it from being coughed on or sneezed on, or sitting next to or hugging a person with the infection. A baby cannot get hepatitis A from breast milk.

Prevention:

The hepatitis A vaccine (HepA) is highly effectivein preventing infection. It is given to at-risk individuals to prevent infection from HAV. In the U.S., doctors recommend the vaccine for all children at age one and for adults who are at high risk of exposure to the virus.

Good hygiene

• Hand hygiene: Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food can help prevent the spread of hepatitis A.
• Safe food and water practices: People should avoid consuming raw or undercooked shellfish, and ensure that drinking water comes from a safe and reliable source.
• Immunoglobulin G (IG): For individuals who have not received a vaccination and may have exposure to HAV, a dose of IG within two weeks of exposure can provide temporary protection against the virus.

Conclusion

The hepatitis A virus (HAV) causes hepatitis A infection. Transmission of the virus is primarily through food or water contaminated with the feces of a person with the virus. Hepatitis A is less common in countries with robust sanitary conditions and hygienic practices.

Practicing good hygiene, including proper handwashing procedures and safe food and water practices, is essential for preventing hepatitis A infection. Vaccination is also highly effective in preventing infection, particularly for individuals at increased risk of exposure.

By adopting preventive measures, people can reduce the risk and minimize the spread of Hepatitis A and protect their liver health.

To learn more about Hepatitis A and many other food and waterborne illnesses and diseases please follow Make Food Safe.