Due to a recent outbreak in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, concern over Hepatitis A has been highlighted in the news. Though a very serious illness, this virus actually can be prevented through proper personal hygiene, such as regular hand washing.
Hepatitis refers to several different illnesses with potentially harmful affects to the liver. As an essential organ of the body, the liver must function properly, or serious illness or even death may occur. There are many types of Hepatitis including classifications A, B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis A is caused by the Hepatitis A virus and affects roughly 125,000-200,000 Americans each year. Hepatitis A virus lives in feces in the intestinal tract. Each year, 11 to 20 percent of people infected require hospitalization, and about 100 deaths occur as a result from this strain of the virus.
Hepatitis A occurs when the virus is taken in by mouth. It is spread when infected persons fail to wash their hands after using the restroom and then handle food, or when a person changes an infected infant’s diaper and handles food before washing their hands. Drinking contaminated water or washing raw fruits or vegetables with contaminated water is another a way the virus can be contracted. In addition, Hepatitis A may be spread by sexual contact with someone who is infected with the virus.
Symptoms of Hepatitis A include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dark urine, and/or jaundice (when the eyes and skin become yellow). Adults will show signs and symptoms more often than children. However, some people infected with the Hepatitis A virus may not experience symptoms.
If you possess the signs or symptoms of the Hepatitis A virus, you should contact your physician immediately. In the meantime, you can prevent spreading the virus by washing your hands carefully after using the toilet, cleaning bathrooms and toilets often, and paying particular attention to surfaces such as toilet seats, handles, taps and diaper changing tables. Careful hand washing before food preparation, between handling raw foods, and before eating helps to prevent the spread of the infection. If you feel you may be infected with Hepatitis A virus, do not handle or prepare food that is to be eaten by others, and do not share eating utensils or other personal items such as toothbrushes, towels, or face cloths.
Fortunately, there is a new, safe and effective vaccine to prevent Hepatitis A. Those who are at a higher risk should seriously consider receiving the immunization, such as persons who are traveling outside of the country, children over two years of age who live in communities with high rates of Hepatitis A, and those with chronic liver disease.
Medical West and its health centers offer Hepatitis A vaccinations for those who feel they are at risk. To make an appointment call 996-WEST.