Hepatitis A is an intestinal infection caused by the hepatitis A virus with a predominantly fecal-oral mechanism of transmission, transmitted mainly by contact. Food and waterborne routes of infection are also possible, and sexual and parenteral routes of transmission are common in practice.

Diagnosing viral hepatitis A is not easy. The disease usually starts acutely with a fever of 37.5-39.0 C0 and minor catarrhal symptoms, which is the basis for the diagnosis of ARVI. Weakness, loss of appetite, nausea, possible vomiting, dull pain and heaviness in the right hypochondrium, and liver enlargement appear.

In the case of jaundiced form, dark urine, and light stools appear, as well as jaundice of the sclerae and skin.

The period of convalescence (recovery) can take up to 6-8 months or more.

There are no specific treatments for HAV, but the most effective means of control is prevention through vaccination. Vaccinations protect against hepatitis A for up to 10 years. A full course of vaccination requires 2 doses administered at intervals of 6-18 months.

Prevention

1. Follow the rules of personal hygiene: wash your hands before eating and after each visit to the toilet.

2. Drink only boiled water (boil for at least 10 minutes).

3. Wash vegetables, fruits, herbs, and berries well before eating.

Remember: do not self-medicate!!! Only a doctor can diagnose viral hepatitis A and provide recommendations on the regimen and treatment. In case of detecting the first signs of the disease, immediately contact the State Institution "TMA of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine in Chernihiv Oblast" or your family doctor.

 

 

Department of Infection Control of the State Institution "TMA of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine in Chernihiv region"