What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a viral disease which is frequently found throughout the developing world and tropical areas. It is spread by poor hygiene from person to person, or by contaminated water, ice, or shellfish harvested from sewage-contaminated water, or from fruits, vegetable or other foods which are eaten uncooked, which may be become contaminated during handling. Hepa A vaccines can protect travellers when in high contact areas.

The symptoms of infection are loss of appetite, nausea, and abdominal discomfort, followed within a few days by jaundice. The course of illness is usually mild, with an almost 100% recovery after 2-4 weeks or hospitalisation. A hepatitis A vaccination is vital for prevention, protection and recovery,

The incidence of Hepatitis A is quoted at 3/100 per month in tropical or developing countries. Obviously, this risk increases with decreasing hygiene and increased risky eating habits.

During travel, the risk will increase for those who live in or visit rural areas, trek in outback country areas, or frequently eat or drink in settings of poor sanitation. Nevertheless, many cases of travel-related Hepatitis A occur in travellers to developing countries with “standard” tourist itineraries, accommodation, and food consumption behaviour.