There are several illnesses and viruses parents need to be on the lookout for, especially with newborns or young children. One illness often overlooked is Hepatitis A, a liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV). While it may not be as widely discussed as other vaccine-preventable diseases, Hepatitis A has the potential to cause serious illness in children.
What is Hepatitis A?
There are five different types of hepatitis: A, B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis A is a highly contagious virus that affects the liver. Unlike Hepatitis B and C, it doesn’t lead to long-term liver damage, but it can still cause severe illness, particularly in young children. The virus spreads easily, especially in areas with poor sanitation or where hygiene practices are not consistently followed.
Although most people recover completely from Hepatitis A, the infection can last for weeks or even months, causing discomfort and disruption to everyday life. In rare cases, it can lead to severe complications, especially for children who may have pre-existing liver conditions.
How Do Kids Get Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is primarily spread through the fecal-oral route, meaning it is transmitted when a person unknowingly ingests the virus after coming into contact with contaminated objects, food, water, or an infected person.
Young children are vulnerable because the virus spreads easily through poor hand hygiene. Some of the most common ways children contract Hepatitis A include:
● Eating food that was handled by someone who didn’t wash their hands properly after using the bathroom.
● Drinking water or eating produce contaminated with the virus, which can happen when traveling to certain regions.
● Touching contaminated surfaces, such as toys or shared objects, and then putting their hands in their mouths.
● Having close contact with an infected person, including sharing utensils or personal items.
● Being exposed in daycare or school settings, where outbreaks can spread quickly.
Because the virus can survive on surfaces for long periods, it spreads easily in group settings.
What Happens if a Child Gets Hepatitis A?
Not all children show symptoms when infected with Hepatitis A, but when they do, the illness can last for several weeks or even months. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:
● Fever
● Loss of appetite
● Nausea and vomiting
● Abdominal pain
● Dark urine and pale stools
● Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
While most children recover fully without long-term effects, Hepatitis A can sometimes lead to hospitalization, dehydration, and in rare cases, severe liver complications.
When Should Kids Get the Hepatitis A Vaccine?
The Hepatitis A vaccine is the most effective way to protect children from infection. It is part of the routine childhood vaccination schedule in the United States.
The recommended vaccination schedule includes:
● First dose: Given between 12 and 23 months of age.
● Second dose: Given at least six months after the first dose.
If a child was not vaccinated as a toddler, they can still receive the vaccine at any age. It is recommended for children who are traveling to countries where Hepatitis A is common, attending daycare, or living in communities where outbreaks are known to happen. The vaccine provides long-term protection and is highly effective in preventing infection.
How Can Parents Prevent Hepatitis A?
There are several things parents can do to help protect their children against Hepatitis A. Teaching and encouraging good hygiene habits is always important for reducing the risk of illness transmission. Some key prevention measures include:
● Ensuring children wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before eating.
● Making sure all food is cooked properly and prepared under sanitary conditions.
● Providing only clean, safe drinking water, particularly when traveling.
● Avoiding sharing utensils, cups, or personal items with others.
Hepatitis A is a serious but preventable illness. By ensuring that children receive the recommended vaccinations and practicing good hygiene, parents can significantly reduce the risk of infection. If you are unsure whether your child is vaccinated, speak with your pediatrician about getting them up to date.
Sources:
CDC: Hepatitis A Vaccine Administration
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Hepatitis A Basic Information
