Most people get infected during trips to less-developed countries or by direct contact with others infected with hepatitis A virus. Hepatitis A has an incubation period of 10 to 40 days. Remember that insanitary conditions allow shellfish to be contaminated by human sewage. Have a separate towel for each family member Wear disposable gloves when helping the sick family member with personal hygiene Clothes which have been contaminated by stools should be washed immediately, or kept in a tightly closed bag until they can be washed. A vaccine for Type A hepatitis is available.
People receive two shots, about six months apart.
The vaccine is recommended in connection with trips to countries where the general standard of hygiene is very poor, e.g. Asian, South American, and African countries. For short trips, gamma globulin is a cheap alternative to the vaccine. Travellers only receive one shot, which will last 1-3 months, depending on the size of the amount injected. The diagnosis is made on the basis of an antibody test which will demonstrate the presence of antibodies against hepatitis A virus in the patient's blood. Blood tests for liver function will reveal the severity of the disease, i.e. to what extent the liver is affected by the virus.