Hepatitis A Infection Specialist in Mumbai Hepatitis A infection is caused by the hepatitis A virus ( HAV ). Humans are the only known reservoir. It is usually transmitted by the fecal – oral route ( either via person – to – person contact or consumption of contaminated food or water. HAV outbreaks have occurred in a variety of settings, including community outbreaks due to contaminated water or food. The liver injury happens as a result of the host immune response to HAV. More than 70 percent of adults, develop symptomatic illness. There is an abrupt onset of nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fever, weakness, and abdominal pain. Within a few days to a week, dark urine appears; pale stools may also be observed. These are followed by jaundice and itching all over body. The laboratory results show abnormalities in liver function reports, which gradually settles down with time. The diagnosis is established by detection of IgM anti – HAV antibodies. Infected individuals are contagious during the incubation period and remain so for about a week after jaundice appears. It is usually a self - limited illness. There is full clinical and biochemical recovery within two to three months in 85 percent of patients, and complete recovery is observed by six months in nearly all patients. Infection confers lifelong immunity and is preventable via vaccination. HAV infection does not become chronic, however relapse of symptoms can happen in up to 10 per cent of patients. Prolonged period of jaundice occurs among fewer than 5 percent of patients. Serious or fatal liver failure occurs in fewer than 1 percent of patients with HAV. The HAV infection can mimic other diseases involving liver which can have fatal consequences. Hence a specialist should consulted at the earliest, at the onset of symptoms itself. The specialist can guide about the correct investigations, to diagnose the cause of symptoms. Under the guidance of specialist, treatment is stream lined and too many medications are also avoided. The treatment just consists of supportive care. Many a times, patients are prescribed medications by healthcare professionals, which themselves are toxic to the liver. Hence, guidance and support from a specialist at the earliest is imperative. The tools for prevention of HAV infection include vaccination and attention to hygienic practices. The specialist’s advice should be sought, regarding eligibility for vaccination, for protection against HAV infection.