Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A (hep A) is a contagious liver infection that is commonly spread through feces coming into contact with the mouth. Learn how you can prevent getting hep A.

What is hep A?

Hep A is a contagious liver infection caused by a virus that can be easily spread from one person to another. For people with liver disease, hep A can be very serious and can lead to liver failure (requiring a liver transplant) or death.

How is hep A spread?

The virus is found in feces (poop) of someone who is infected with hep A. It can spread when these trace amounts of poop get into the mouth, for example, during rimming or anal sex. It’s also possible to get hep A while sharing certain items like needles, syringes and/or other drug injection equipment, or cigarettes. If someone who has hep A uses the bathroom without washing their hands—and then prepares food or drink items that you eat or drink—they can pass hep A to you.

What are the symptoms of hep A?

Symptoms usually appear about three to four weeks after you have been exposed to the virus. They include:

The symptoms of hep A infection usually last less than two months and vary from person to person. But for some people it may take up to six months for symptoms to go away.

The virus can be passed to others even if the person who has hep A doesn’t feel sick or show symptoms.

When should I get tested for hep A?

Get tested if you’ve had an exposure to hep A or if you’re having symptoms. Anyone can get hep A, but some people have a higher risk, including:

Men who have sex with men, especially with multiple sex partners
People who travel or work in areas of the world where hep A is common
People who use or inject drugs
People who live with someone who has hep A
People experiencing homelessness

People with chronic liver disease including hep B and hep C, and people with HIV, are at higher risk for severe disease if they get hep A.

How do I get tested for hep A?

If you think you’ve been exposed, talk to your health care provider about testing for hep A, as well as hep B, HIV, hep C, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A blood test can detect hep B.

Looking for a health care provider? Find a health care provider near you.

What is the treatment for hep A?

While there is no treatment for the virus, the infection eventually goes away on its own. Once the virus goes away, it can no longer be passed to others, and you will be immune to hep A.

How can I prevent hep A?

There’s a safe and effective vaccine that’s recommended for people who may be at risk for hep A. You’ll need two doses of the vaccine—usually about six to 12 months apart—to ensure long-term protection. It’s an easy addition to your sexual health routine that can help you protect yourself and your partners.

Think you may have already gotten the vaccine? Ask your health care provider. If neither of you are sure, it doesn’t hurt to get another.  And while you’re at it, be sure to ask about getting the hep B vaccine.

These tips can help you prevent hep A:

Wash your hands after sex, or handling condoms and sex toys
Use latex condoms for anal sex, and between anal and oral sex
Use latex gloves for fingering or fisting
Use a latex barrier for rimming
Don’t share sex toys and make sure to wash sex toys after use
Don’t share personal items like towels or utensils
Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching or eating food, after using the toilet, and after changing a diaper
Always wash fruit and vegetables before eating them
Don’t eat raw or undercooked shellfish

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