Usually the virus doesn't cause any long-term problems or complications. But according to the CDC, 10% to 15% of people with hepatitis A will have symptoms that last a long time or come back over a 6- to 9-month period. In rare situations, some people may have liver failure or need a transplant.

You can catch the disease if you drink water or food that's been contaminated with the stool of someone with the virus.

You can also get infected if you:

• Touching objects or eating food that someone with hepatitis A virus infection handled.
• Having sex with someone who has a HAV infection.

You could be at risk for the disease if you:

• Live with or have sex with someone who's infected
• Travel to countries where hepatitis A is common
• Users of injection and non-injection illegal drugs

No treatments can cure the disease. Your doctor may take tests that check your liver function to be sure your body is healing.

• Frequent handwashing with soap and warm water after using the bathroom, changing a diaper, or before preparing food can help prevent the spread of hepatitis A.
• Don’t have sex with someone who has HAV infection.
• Use your own towels, toothbrushes, and eating utensils.
• Don’t share food, drinks, or smokes with other people.
• Hepatitis A can be prevented with a safe and effective vaccine - Providers who do not have available vaccine should contact County Public Health at the number below for further guidance.

• Monterey County Health Department Communicable Disease Unit Hepatitis A Information
• Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) From the CDC