HEPATITIS A

HEPATITIS A

Hepatitis A is an infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), usually transmitted through food or water contaminated with the virus. In some cases, it can be transmitted during sexual practices when there is direct or indirect contact between the anus and the mouth.

However, hepatitis A is not widespread in Europe, so it remains a relatively rare STI in Belgium. Men who have sex with men (MSM) are a particularly high-risk group.

Transmissions

Hepatitis A is transmitted by sexual contact:

  • Direct or indirect contact between the mouth and the anus or faecal residue of a person carrying the virus.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hepatitis A may include :

  • loss of appetite
  • nausea
  • fever
  • muscle aches
  • jaundice

Consequences

In the majority of cases, there are no consequences because the hepatitis A virus clears itself (recovery).

Screening

Hepatitis A can be detected by blood test.

Treatment

Hepatitis A is generally a self-limiting disease, conferring immunity once cured. In most healthy people, the body is able to eliminate the virus without the need for medical treatment, and it rarely causes serious complications. Deaths from hepatitis A are rare. However, symptoms may last several weeks or even months before disappearing completely. During this period, it's important to avoid drugs that can harm the liver, such as paracetamol.

Protection

There are several ways to protect yourself from hepatitis A:

Vaccination

Adults who are not immunized can be vaccinated with two injections. You can ask for a blood test to check whether you are already immune to hepatitis A.

Vaccination is particularly recommended for those who practice anal sex. www.vaccination-info.be

Preventive measures

To minimize the risk of contamination :

  • Avoid contact between mouth and faeces (use latex square for anilingus).
  • Wash your hands regularly

Sources

World Health Organization: WHO. (2023, July 20). Hepatitis A. https://www.who.int/fr/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-a

Kumar, S. (1445, January 23). Hepatitis A. MSD Manuals for the General Public. https://www.msdmanuals.com/fr/accueil/troubles-du-foie-et-de-la-v%C3%A9sicule-biliaire/h%C3%A9patite/h%C3%A9patite-a#Pr%C3%A9vention_v36936084_fr

Vaccination-info (2024, July 19.). Hepatitis A. https://www.vaccination-info.be/maladie/hepatite-a/

Hepatitis A, B, C, D and E. (s. d.). sciensano.be. https://www.sciensano.be/fr/sujets-sante/hepatites-a-b-c-d-et-e

Other STIs

Other infections