Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious viral infection which is spread through food and water contaminated with the virus. Hepatitis A affects the liver causing jaundice, and whilst most people make a full recovery, it can result in chronic liver disease and be fatal.

Hepatitis A is easily preventable through vaccination, and there are several types of vaccines available in the UK to adults and children over the age of 12 months.

As the risk of infection in the UK is low, it isn’t routinely given but for those planning to travel to certain countries it is strongly advised they get vaccinated. Outbreaks and the risk remain high in certain areas worldwide including in Central and South America, Africa, Eastern Europe, Middle-East, Asia, and the Indian Subcontinent. Outbreaks have also occurred in the Czech Republic and Hawaii.

Who should be vaccinated against Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is offered to people planning to travel to parts of the world where Hepatitis A is common due to poor sanitation.

The vaccine is also recommended to anyone in close contact with someone who has hepatitis A, people with long-term liver disease, men who have sex with other men, people who inject drugs, those who may be exposed to hepatitis A through their job.

What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV).

The virus infects liver cells and causes inflammation which can affect how your liver works.