Hepatitis a

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A (pronounced /ˌhɛpəˈtaɪtɪs eɪ/) is an infectious disease of the liver caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV).

Etymology

The term "Hepatitis" is derived from the Greek words hepar (ἧπαρ), meaning 'liver', and -itis, used in medical terminology to denote 'inflammation'. The 'A' denotes the type of the virus as classified by the World Health Organization.

Overview

Hepatitis A is primarily spread when an unvaccinated person ingests food or water that is contaminated with the feces of an infected person. It can also spread through close personal contact with an infected person, such as through sex or caring for someone who is ill.

Symptoms

Most people with Hepatitis A have symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. A blood test is needed to diagnose Hepatitis A.

Prevention and Treatment

Vaccination is the best way to prevent Hepatitis A. If you're traveling to areas where Hepatitis A is common, you should get a vaccine before you go. If you have been exposed to Hepatitis A and have not been vaccinated, you may need a shot of immune globulin to prevent severe illness.

Related Terms

• Hepatitis
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C
• Liver disease
• Vaccine
• Infectious disease
• Jaundice

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Hepatitis a
• Wikipedia's article - Hepatitis a

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