Question

What are the modes of transmission, main signs and symptoms and treatments for hepatitis A?

Answer 1

Ans. Causative agent: Hepatovirus A virus (HAV)

Mode of Transmission: The virus is transmitted through fecal-oral route, i.e. intake of food and water contaminated with the feces of an infected person. Consumption of seafood or products grown in contaminated water also transmits the virus to the host. The transmission occurs when an infected person shakes his contaminated hand with a healthy person.

Symptoms: The infected individuals present the symptoms including jaundice, anorexia, fever, joint pains, diarrhea, nausea & vomiting, etc.

Treatment: There is no specific antiviral drug is available against HAV. However, the patient can be administrated with active immunization vaccine containing inactivated (formalin-treated) cultured viruses – it helps the patient developing immunity against the virus. The patient is advised to take rest and adequate balanced diet. Moreover, the patient shall take liquid diet and oral rehydration solution to minimize the water loss through diarrhea and vomiting.