Living in an area with an HAV outbreak. Anal-oral sex with an infected person. IV drug use. In water HAV can remain infectious for up to 10 months in water. For this reason all shellfish should be thoroughly cooked.
Symptoms vary from no symptoms to light stools, dark urine, fatigue, fever and jaundice.
A blood test is available. Check with your physician if you suspect that you may have hepatitis of any form. Exercise caution when traveling to foreign coutries. Avoid beverages made with ice. Chemical disinfection can be accomplished through the use of either iodine or chlorine, iodine is the most effective disinfectant.