Hepatitis A is an inflammation of the liver organ caused by hepatitis A virus infection. This infection that interferes with the work of the liver can be easily transmitted through food or drink contaminated with the virus .
Hepatitis A is rarely fatal, but in rare cases, this condition can cause liver failure. While in pregnant women, hepatitis A can trigger premature birth and liver damage in the baby.
Symptoms and Risk Factors of Hepatitis A
Symptoms of hepatitis A appear a few weeks after the virus enters the body. Complaints arising from hepatitis A include jaundice , fever, weakness, as well as nausea and vomiting.
A person is more at risk of contracting hepatitis A if he visits or lives in an area where there are many cases of hepatitis A. People who have sexual contact with hepatitis A sufferers can also be affected by the same disease.
Treatment and Prevention of Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A will heal on its own because the patient's immune system will kill the virus. The treatment given is only to alleviate the symptoms while waiting for the disease to heal.
While the way to prevent hepatitis A is to undergo hepatitis A vaccination , take care of personal hygiene and the environment, and make sure that the food and drinks you drink are properly cooked.