HEPATITIS A.pptx

Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). It is a highly infectious disease, primarily transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water.

1. HEPATITIS “A” MS. SONAM SHARMA ASST. PROFESSOR

2. HEPATITIS “A” Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). It is a highly infectious disease, primarily transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water.

3. EPIDEMIOLOGICAL TRIAD

4. AGENT The causative agent is  hepatitis A virus (RNA virus) , hepatitis A virus, present mostly in the stool (feces)  and blood of an infected person.

5. RESERVOIR OF INFECTION Human beings are the only known reservoir of infection There is no evidence of chronic carrier state

6. HOST FACTORS Susceptible Individuals: Any person who has not been vaccinated against hepatitis A or has not previously been infected with the virus is susceptible. Hosts can include people of all ages, but certain groups are at higher risk:

7. CONTINUE Travellers to regions with high HAV prevalence. Individuals in close contact with an infected person. Those with poor sanitation and hygiene practices. People who use recreational drugs, both injection and non-injection types .

8. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS Sanitation and Hygiene: Poor sanitation and inadequate hygiene practices are significant environmental factors. Contaminated food and water sources play a crucial role in the transmission of HAV . Water Supply: Contaminated water sources due to improper sewage disposal can harbor the virus.

9. CONTINUE Food Handling: Improper food handling and preparation, especially in settings where food is prepared for large groups (e.g., restaurants, schools), can lead to outbreaks. Living Conditions: Overcrowded living conditions and lack of access to clean water and sanitation facilities facilitate the spread of the virus .

10. CONTINUE Climate: In some regions, seasonal variations can influence the incidence of hepatitis A, with higher rates often seen during warmer months due to increased consumption of potentially contaminated food and water .

11. Causes Hepatitis A is caused by the hepatitis A virus , which is a non-enveloped RNA virus belonging to the Picornaviridae family.

12. Mode of transmission

13. CONTINUE Fecal-oral route This is the main transmission pathway. It can happen directly (from person to person) or inadvertently (via tainted milk, food, or water). Hepatitis Epidemic breakouts have been linked to eating raw or undercooked shellfish that has been picked from sewage-contaminated water or salads. The virus spreads more easily in unsanitary environments.

14. CONTINUE Parenteral route Hepatitis A is rarely transmitted through the parenteral route (by blood and blood product or by skin penetration through contaminated needles). Sexual transmission Sexual transmission may occur among homosexuals because of oral-anal contact .

15. Incubation Period Hepatitis A typically requires 14 to 28 days to incubate. The duration of the incubation phase depends on how much virus is ingested .

16. Risk factor People who visit high- endemicity regions without getting vaccinated. Members of the armed forces Sexually active individuals Individuals abusing illegal intravenous narcotics Employees of daycare centers Institutional daycare facilities Having sex with men

17. CONTINUE Living with an infected individual Having clotting factor disorders like hemophilia People with HIV People consuming raw or undercooked seafood Those who are homeless People with chronic liver disease, including hepatitis B and hepatitis C

18. Pathophysiology

19. Symptoms Fever Chills Headache Fatigue/weakness Anorexia / malaise /  Nausea/ Vomiting Diarrhoea Itching

20. CONTINUE Abdominal pain or discomfort, especially on the upper right side beneath the lower ribs Dark-colored urine Clay-colored bowel movements Joint pain Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and/or whites of the eyes)

21. Diagnosis Hepatitis A can be diagnosed using a variety of tests. Medical history – Immunization status and travel history Physical examination To rule out the symptoms

22. CONTINUE Serologic Tests : The primary method for diagnosing hepatitis A is through serologic testing. Anti-HAV IgM : This antibody indicates an acute HAV infection. It appears early in the course of infection and usually remains detectable for 3-6 months. Anti-HAV IgG : This antibody indicates past infection or vaccination. It appears later in the infection and provides lifelong immunity.

23. CONTINUE PCR test While early-stage antibodies cannot be found, PCR for RNA can be found in the blood and feces.

24. CONTINUE Liver Function Tests (LFTs ) Complete Blood Count (CBC)

25. TREATMENT Symptomatic Treatment Pain and Fever : Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used to manage pain and fever. However, acetaminophen should be used with caution due to potential liver toxicity. Nausea and Vomiting : Anti-nausea medications such as ondansetron may be prescribed if needed.

26. CONTINUE Supportive Care Rest : Patients are advised to get plenty of rest to help the body fight off the infection. Hydration : Drinking fluids, such as water and oral rehydration solutions, is important to prevent dehydration, especially if the patient is experiencing vomiting or diarrhea .

27. CONTINUE Nutrition : A balanced diet is recommended. Small, frequent meals may help if the patient has a reduced appetite. Avoid Alcohol and Drugs : Patients should avoid alcohol and any drugs that can cause liver damage, including over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol ).

28. Prevention Hepatitis A Vaccine : The hepatitis A vaccine is the most effective way to prevent infection. It is recommended for: All children at one year of age. Travelers to countries where hepatitis A is common. Individuals with chronic liver disease. People who use recreational drugs. Men who have sex with men. People with clotting-factor disorders. Food service workers and other high-risk occupations.

29. CONTINUE Vaccination Schedule : Children : Initial Dose : The first dose is recommended at 12 to 23 months of age. Second Dose : A second dose is administered 6 to 12 months after the first dose . Adults : Initial Dose : The first dose is given at any time. Second Dose : A second dose is administered 6 to 12 months after the first dose .

30. CONTINUE Post-Exposure Prophylaxis : Vaccination can be given within two weeks of exposure to HAV to prevent the infection .

31. CONTINUE Hand Washing : Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water: After using the bathroom. Before preparing or eating food. After changing diapers or cleaning up after a child who has used the bathroom.

32. CONTINUE Food Safety : Ensure food is cooked thoroughly and served hot. Avoid eating raw or undercooked shellfish. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating. Safe Water : Drink bottled or boiled water in areas with questionable water quality. Avoid ice cubes and use bottled water for brushing teeth .

33. CONTINUE Travel Precautions Vaccination Before Travel : Get vaccinated at least two weeks before traveling to areas where hepatitis A is prevalent. Safe Eating and Drinking : Eat food that is freshly cooked and served hot. Avoid street food and food from unknown sources. Drink bottled or boiled water, and avoid ice cubes.

34. CONTINUE Reducing Spread Isolation : Infected individuals should avoid close contact with others, especially sharing utensils, food, and drinks, until they are no longer contagious. Reporting : Report cases of hepatitis A to local health authorities to help control outbreaks.

35. CONTINUE Community Measures Public Health Campaigns : Promote awareness about hepatitis A prevention through public health campaigns. Sanitation : Ensure access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities, especially in high-risk areas.