1. Dr Paul T Francis, MD Community Medicine College of Medicine, Zawia
Viral Hepatitis A
Dr Paul T Francis, MD
Community Medicine
College of Medicine, Zawia

2. Viral Hepatitis A
Is an acute communicable disease of the liver seen world-wide

3. Agent factors Agent factor – Hepatitis A virus
Reservoir of infection – Man
No chronic carriers
Infective material – Feces
Period of infectivity – 2 weeks before to 1 week after onset of jaundice

4. Host factors Age – common in younger age (<40)
Immunity – one attack gives good immunity
A large number of people acquire immunity through sub-clinical infection in endemic areas

5. Epidemiological factors
Mode of transmission – feco-oral route (contaminated food, water, hands)
Incubation period – days

6. Prevention and control
Primary prevention
Sanitary disposal of excreta
Safe drinking water supply
Control of flies
Better food hygiene
Vaccination

7. Prevention and control
Secondary prevention
Early diagnosis and treatment
Since there are no antiviral drugs give supportive treatment