Can a person contract Hepatitis A more than once?
Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. This contagious disease can spread through close, personal contact with an infected person, certain sexual contact, or consuming contaminated food or drink.
The best way to prevent hepatitis A is by getting the full course of the hepatitis A vaccine. The vaccine schedule consists of two doses at least 6 months apart. Children can begin the vaccine schedule once they are 12 months or older, while adults can receive the vaccine at any time they require it.
Practicing good hygiene, washing hands frequently, and avoiding raw or undercooked food are other ways to help prevent hepatitis A. Washing the hands after using the bathroom and after changing diapers, before food preparation and eating is essential to prevent the spread of hepatitis A.
Once a person contracts hepatitis A and recovers, they will not get the infection again due to the development of lifelong immunoglobulin G antibodies. However, persons with immunosuppression could potentially get Hepatitis A twice. This is because their weakened immune system might not develop lasting immunity after the first infection.
Symptoms of hepatitis A can include jaundice, loss of appetite, stomach upset, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, fever, dark urine, light-colored stools, joint pain, fatigue, and yellowing of the skin and eyes. These symptoms may appear anywhere from 15 to 50 days after exposure to the virus.
There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A, and recovery may be slow, taking several months. Severe symptoms may require hospital treatment. To help manage symptoms, it is advised to get enough rest, eat a nutritious diet, and drink plenty of fluids. During recovery, it is recommended to avoid unnecessary medications that can affect the liver, such as paracetamol or medications containing acetaminophen, and alcohol.
Hepatitis A can relapse, causing another acute episode within 6 months of recovery, but people will usually recover fully. After recovering from hepatitis A, a person is immune to the infection.
It is crucial to stay informed about hepatitis A, understand how it spreads, and take preventative measures to protect yourself and others. By getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene, we can help prevent the spread of this contagious disease.
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