No specific therapy, only supportive care, is available. However, increased risk does exist in Southern Europe where there are intermediate rates of hepatitis A. Risk is even greater if travel plans include visits to rural areas, extensive travel in the countryside, frequent, close contact with local persons, or eating in settings of poor sanitation. A study has shown that many cases of travel-related hepatitis A occur in travelers to developing countries with standard itineraries, accommodations, and food consumption behaviors. The virus is inactivated by boiling or cooking to 85 degrees centigrade for one minute, therefore eating thoroughly cooked foods and drinking only treated water serve as general precautions. Hepatitis A vaccine is preferred for persons who plan to travel repeatedly or reside for long periods of time in intermediate or high risk areas.
Immune globulin is recommended for persons of all ages who desire only short term protection.
Prevaccination testing is not indicated for children because of their expected low prevalence of prior HAV infection. Travelers should note that preparations manufactured in foreign countries may or may not meet these requirements. Persons needing repeat doses in other countries should use products that meet U.S. license requirements. CDC recommends hepatitis A vaccine or IG for protection against hepatitis A. Hepatitis A vaccine is available in both pediatric and adult formulations with different dosages and schedules. Your health care provider should be consulted for correct dosage and scheduling.