Home » Health & Wellness  » Preventive measures »  Hepatitis A Hepatitis A is actually the disease of the liver, resulting from infection from the hepatitis A virus. The virus is excreted in faeces (stools), and then spreads primarily by the faecal-oral route.

How does Hepatitis A spread?

Contaminated water or food, especially raw or insufficiently cooked food. The infection may be acquired through close contact with infected individuals within families, schools or at the place of work.

Is this a serious disease?

Symptoms last for six weeks to sometimes even three months depending on the infection. The patient needs good best rest and a restricted diet, preferably low fat. Complications although uncommon, are seen occasionally.

How can one protect oneself and children against this?

Very simple. It just means you have to maintain good personal and community hygiene. And you must drink water, which is safe. Drinking water from many hotels and eateries are the main culprits that are responsible in spreading this disease.

You have to make sure that you and the kids drink water, which is from a safe source. If you are not able to carry your own water due to some inevitable circumstances, then you must protect yourself by taking vaccination. This is an effective means for providing protection against the disease. But do consult your family physician.