This means that parent and child-care workers handling soiled diapers can catch or transmit the disease without knowing they have been exposed. Clinical manifestations of hepatitis A often pass unrecognized in children younger than two years of age. Overt hepatitis develops in the majority of infected older children and adults. In adults, approximately 22 percent will be hospitalized. The incubation period for hepatitis A ranges from 20 to 50 days, which means that infectious patients, such as food handlers or children, can spread the disease well before they are even aware they have it.
Incubation is shorter with increasing age.
Most patients begin recovery within three weeks, although some have prolonged or relapsing symptoms for up to six months. The highest incidence of hepatitis A is in children. Nearly 30 percent of the reported cases occur in children younger than 15. Many very young children do not show symptoms, so the unreported number is likely much higher. Many health experts suggest that children are a silent source in spreading the disease.