Algoma Public Health

Hepatitis A

A viral disease that attacks the liver.
Most common among daycare and school aged children, younger adults and men who have sex with men.
Convalescence is prolonged but complete recovery without complications is the general rule.

Sault Ste. Marie: 705-942-4646

Blind River: 705-356-2551

Elliot Lake: 705-848-2314

Wawa: 705-856-7208

Within 15 to 50 days after coming in contact with the virus. This is referred to as the incubation period.

The hepatitis A virus is excreted in the stool of infected persons.
Spread from person to person by food or water contaminated with infected stool (e.g. food handlers who don’t wash their hands)
From raw or undercooked shellfish harvested from polluted water.
From contaminated fruits and vegetables from underdeveloped countries.
By sexual contact with an infected person.
By sharing needles and drug-related equipment.

During the later half of the incubation period and continuing for about a week after onset of jaundice.
Infected persons should not attend daycare or school during this time.

There is no treatment for the infected person.
Household and sexual contacts of an infected person may be advised to have an injection of Hepatitis A vaccine or immune globulin.

Infected persons should avoid preparing or handling food for others.
Wash your hands after going to the toilet, changing a diaper and before preparing food or eating.
Dispose of diapers in a sanitary manner.
Drink from a safe water supply.
Become immunized with hepatitis A vaccine.

If you are traveling outside Canada or U.S.A. check with the Algoma Public Health regarding recommended vaccines and precautions.

Date of Creation: June 1, 2015

Last Modified: October 2, 2018