A Vaccine-Preventable Liver Infection
Hepatitis A can be transmitted sexually and causes acute liver inflammation. Vaccination provides excellent protection, especially important for men who have sex with men and travellers to endemic regions.
Hepatitis A is a highly contagious viral infection affecting the liver. Unlike Hepatitis B and C, it does not cause chronic infection but can cause significant acute illness lasting several weeks. The virus is transmitted through the faecal-oral route, including during certain sexual practices. Hepatitis A is entirely preventable through vaccination.
Hepatitis A is diagnosed through a blood test that detects IgM antibodies against the virus, indicating recent infection. We can also test for IgG antibodies which show past infection or vaccination immunity. Testing is recommended if you have symptoms after potential exposure or want to check your immunity status before vaccination.
There is no specific antiviral treatment for Hepatitis A. Management is supportive: rest, adequate hydration, avoiding alcohol and hepatotoxic medications, and a nutritious diet. Most people recover fully within 1-2 months. Severe cases may require hospitalisation. Prevention through vaccination is far preferable to treatment.
Hepatitis A is not traditionally classified as an STI but can be sexually transmitted, particularly through oral-anal contact. It's included in sexual health screening for at-risk groups, especially men who have sex with men, where outbreaks have occurred.
The vaccine is highly effective, providing protection in over 95% of people after a single dose. A second dose at 6-12 months provides long-lasting immunity, likely lifelong. It can also prevent infection if given within 2 weeks of exposure.
No, once you've recovered from Hepatitis A, you have lifelong immunity. Similarly, completed vaccination provides long-term protection. If you've had confirmed Hepatitis A before, you don't need vaccination.
You're most infectious from about 2 weeks before symptoms appear until about 1 week after jaundice develops. You should avoid sexual contact and food preparation during this time. Some people remain infectious for longer.
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