Hepatitis A
How do I know I’ve got it?
Initially when people get hepatitis A they may be unwell with a fever, muscle aches and feel a bit like they have flu. In addition there skin and eyes may go yellow - ‘jandiced’.
These symptoms can get worse and require treatment, or they can get better.
If they get better then your blood will show that you have had hepatitis A in the past.
How do you get it?
From ingestion of faecal matter, either through sexual contact or by contamination of drinking water.
Treating sexual partners
If you are diagnosed with hepatitis A it is important that your sexual partner(s) are tested and vaccinated if necessary.
How do I avoid getting Hepatitis A?
- Vaccination is available for Hepatitis A. Once you have had hepatitis A you cannot get it again.
- The best way to avoid transmission of sexually transmitted diseases is to abstain from sexual contact, or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected.
- Practicing safer sex will reduce your risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection. This means using a condom for oral, vaginal and anal sex.
For more information and support in relation to sexual health issues, please contact or make an appointment with one of our local services