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Health and Wellness

Decent Essays

Ainsley Stewart
Health and Wellness
Prof. Michael Wagstaff

Hepatitis A

What is the infectious agent (pathogen) that causes this infectious disease?

Hepatitis A virus HAV is an RNA virus classified as a picornavirus.

How is this infectious agent transmitted through food or water?

There are a number of ways that one can get the HAV and there are; person-to-person contact; through exposure to contaminated water, ice, or shellfish harvested from sewage-contaminated water; or from fruits, vegetables, or other foods that are eaten uncooked and that were contaminated during harvesting or subsequent handling. HAV is shed in the feces of infected people. The virus reaches peak levels 1–2 weeks before onset of symptoms and …show more content…

Signs and symptoms of hepatitis A include: * Fatigue * Nausea and vomiting * Abdominal pain or discomfort, especially in the area of your liver on your right side beneath your lower ribs * Loss of appetite * Low-grade fever * Dark urine * Muscle pain * Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)

I find it very interesting that HAV has no real treatment but it goes away on its own, here are some recommendations.

Hepatitis A goes away on its own in most cases. Most people get well within a few months. While you have hepatitis: Slow down. Cut back on daily activities until all of your energy returns. As you start to feel better, take your time in getting back to your regular routine. If you try to do it too fast, you may get sick again. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Fruit juices and broth are other good choices, if you can tolerate them. Eat a healthy mix of foods. Even though food may not appeal to you, it is important for you to get good nutrition. Don't drink alcohol or use illegal drugs. They can make liver problems worse. Make sure your doctor knows all the medicines you are taking, including herbal products. Don't start or change any medicines without talking to your doctor first.

What steps can be taken to prevent further outbreaks? Include individual as well as environmental precautions and methods

The hepatitis A vaccine can prevent the breakout of the virus,

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