Hepatitis A is a short-term but highly contagious liver infection. It’s not very common in the UK, but if you’re travelling abroad or in close contact with someone who has it, it’s important to understand how it spreads—and how you can protect yourself.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the symptoms, causes, transmission, and best steps for prevention of hepatitis A. Whether you’re heading overseas or just want to know more, this blog covers everything.
Hepatitis A is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. It’s caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV) and spreads mostly through contaminated food, drink, or close personal contact.
Unlike hepatitis B or C, hepatitis A doesn’t lead to long-term liver problems. Most people recover within a few weeks or months without any serious issues. Still, it can make you feel unwell and can be dangerous for people with pre-existing liver conditions.
Some people—especially young children—might not show any signs at all. But if symptoms do show, they tend to pop up 2 to 6 weeks after catching the virus.
These symptoms can range from mild to severe and usually last up to two months, but sometimes longer.
The infection is caused by the hepatitis A virus, which is found in the stool (poo) and blood of someone who’s infected. You can get it by swallowing even tiny amounts of contaminated matter.
Wondering how you contract the hepatitis A virus or how you catch hepatitis A? Here are the most common ways:
So yes, how hepatitis A is transmitted often comes down to hygiene, or lack of it.
You’re more at risk if you:
There’s no specific hepatitis A treatment. Most people recover naturally with rest, fluids, and good nutrition.
If symptoms are severe or don’t improve, see your GP. Some people may need medication to manage things like nausea or itching.
One of the best ways to stay protected is with the hepatitis A vaccine.
You should ideally get vaccinated at least 2 weeks before travelling. The vaccine is usually given in two doses: the first offers protection within a few weeks, and the booster (6–12 months later) provides long-term protection for up to 20 years or more.
You can book your hepatitis A vaccination at the Private Medical Clinic if you're planning a trip.
Early hepatitis A symptoms are often mistaken for general flu or stomach bugs. These may include fatigue, mild fever, loss of appetite, nausea, tummy discomfort (especially on the upper right), and muscle aches. As the infection progresses, more specific signs like jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, pale stools, and itchy skin may appear. Some people, especially young children, may show no symptoms at all.
While most people recover without treatment, hepatitis A can occasionally lead to acute liver failure, especially in older adults or people with existing liver problems. In rare cases, a liver transplant may be needed. However, long-term liver damage (chronic hepatitis) does not occur with hepatitis A.
Diagnosis is usually done through:
There’s no cure or specific antiviral for hepatitis A. Hepatitis A treatment involves supportive care:
Recovery usually takes a few weeks to two months, but some people feel unwell for up to six months.
Yes, but it’s not given routinely. It’s available free on the NHS for people considered high-risk, such as:
If you think you’ve been exposed:
No. Once you’ve recovered from hepatitis A, you develop lifelong immunity. However, if you’ve never had the infection or the vaccine, you remain at risk.
Final Thoughts
Hepatitis A may not be common in the UK, but it’s still something to take seriously, especially if you’re travelling abroad or work in healthcare. The good news is that it’s entirely preventable with good hygiene and the hepatitis A vaccine.
If you’re concerned about your risk, travelling soon, or showing symptoms, speak to one of our GPs at Private Medical Clinic. We offer a wide range of routine vaccinations, travel health vaccinations, and full screening options to keep you safe wherever you are.
