Hepatitis A

is a highly contagious infection caused by Hepatitis A virus

about

What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A highly contagious infection caused by Hepatitis A virus (HAV). It affects the liver, it is the most common type of viral hepatitis (but not very common in Ireland).

  • is it
    treatable?

    Hepatitis A is usually an acute infection. Many people recover within a couple of months without treatment. Hepatitis A is rarely serious and once you recover you are immune to infection recurring.

  • is it
    contagious?

    Yes, Hepatitis A is contagious and can be transferred to you or partner through:

    • anal oral sex (mouth to anus)
    • contaminated water

  • who does it
    affect?

    Hepatitis A can be asymptomatic this means that you may not experience any symptoms but symptoms may include flu-like symptoms, loss of appetite, abdominal pains and/or jaundice.

  • common in
    Ireland?

    Hepatitis A is not very common in Ireland.

What is the test
for Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A tests use a sample of blood to detect antibodies made by the body in response to the virus.

Where can I
get this done?

Hepatitis A tests can be performed at a STI clinic, GP clinic or using a home test kit.

What are the
symptoms?

Hepatitis A can be asymptomatic this means that you may not experience any symptoms but symptoms may include:

Female

Flu-like symptoms
Loss of appetite
Abdominal pains
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

Male

Flu-like symptoms
Loss of appetite
Abdominal pains
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

How is it
treated?

Hepatitis A is usually an acute infection. Many people recover within a couple of months without treatment. Hepatitis A is rarely serious and once you recover, you are immune to infection recurring.

Other STIs

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection in Ireland

Gonorrhoea

Also known as the ‘clap’ or ‘drip’ it's a very common infection in both men and women and can cause infections in the genitals, anus and/or throat.

Herpes

Genital Herpes or just ‘herpes’ is caused by a virus and can cause painful blisters on the genitals and surrounding area.

HIV

HIV is a virus called The Human Immunodeficiency Virus that causes HIV infection and over time AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)

HPV (Genital Warts)

Genital warts are skin growths and can cause a lot of pain, itching and discomfort.

Syphilis

It is a bacteria passed via direct contact with a syphilis sore. Sores usually occur in the mouth, vagina, anus, rectum or external genitalia.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A highly contagious infection caused by Hepatitis A virus (HAV). It affects the liver and blood, it is the most common type of viral hepatitis.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B highly contagious infection caused by Hepatitis B virus (HBV). It affects the liver and can result in an acute and severe sudden illness. It can be fatal if it isn’t treated!

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C highly contagious infection caused by Hepatitis C virus (HCV). It affects the liver and can result in an acute and severe sudden illness. There is currently no vaccine to prevent Hepatitis C.