Hepatitis A, also known as HAV, is a food and water-borne virus and is one of the 10 most common reportable diseases in the United States. It can be spread by eating contaminated food, drinking contaminated water or ice cubes, close personal contact or sharing dirty needles. While only a small percentage of the 138,000 people who contract Hepatitis A annually die from the disease, the associated illness can be severe with long-term ramifications.

Globally, more than 1.4 million cases of Hepatitis A occur each year, including more than 130,000 cases in the United States, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Hepatitis A is a liver disease that causes internal swelling and can impede liver function. The liver is the organ that fights infection and stops bleeding; therefore, any decrease in its activities can result in negative consequences in other areas of the body. Hepatitis A can often be characterized by flu-like symptoms. If you have contracted Hepatitis A, you may experience fatigue, nausea, fever, loss of appetite, stomach pains or diarrhea. Some people have dark yellow urine, light-colored stools, or yellowish eyes and skin.

It is also important to know that some people may not experience any symptoms. A blood test may be the only sure way of knowing if a person is infected with Hepatitis A.

A good way to help protect yourself against Hepatitis A is to get the Hepatitis A vaccine, which consists of two shots over six to 12 months for adults. You can also help protect yourself and others against Hepatitis A by always washing your hands after using the toilet and before preparing food or eating. If you must be in contact with another person’s stool, wash your hands afterwards. Also, drink bottled water when you are in another country (including use for ice and washing vegetables).

To learn more about Hepatitis A and other types of hepatitis or to take a blood test, call your doctor.