Hepatitis A
Overview
Hepatitis A is caused by a virus that's spread in poo. It's mostly caught from infected food and drink in places where the infection is more common.
There is a vaccine for hepatitis A, but you only need to get vaccinated if you are at high-risk of catching it or getting seriously ill.
Symptoms of hepatitis A can include a high temperature, feeling or being sick, tummy pain, pale coloured poo and yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Hepatitis A usually gets better on its own within 3 to 6 months. Some people may need medicines to help ease the symptoms.
You can help ease the symptoms of hepatitis A by resting, drinking plenty of fluids, taking painkillers like ibuprofen and avoiding alcohol.
Hepatitis A is a type of liver infection. It is not common in the UK, but common in Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Central and South America.
Page last reviewed: 23/10/2022
Next review due: 23/10/2025