dept

Student Health Services

 

Hepatitis, Infectious - Hepatitis A

 

Cause:Hepatitis virus, Type A - A type of virus that spreads through the intestinal tract.

Signs and Symptoms:A virus infection which begins with an abrupt fever, discomfort (malaise), loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping followed within a few days by jaundice and flu-like symptoms. Yellowing of eyes and skin appears late and often is not visible in children, as they are usually asymptomatic.

Incubation Period:Time of contact until the development of signs and symptoms. Usually 15 to 45 days.

Mode of transmission:Person to person by fecal - oral route. Not by casual contact. The virus is present in intestinal contents of infected persons and is passed in bowel movements. Virus is also transmitted by contaminated food and water. The use of contaminated articles and failing to wash hands thoroughly after handling contaminated objects can be sources of transmission.

Preventive Measures:Use universal precautions/bloodborne pathogens procedure. Utilize good handwashing techniques. Gamma globulin is recommended for close household contacts and it is rarely required for school or social contacts.

Implications for School: Should your child present any of these symptoms please contact your family physician. School attendance recommendations: exclude student from school until the student's health care provider has determined when the student can return. Student must have a note from health care provider before returning.