How do I avoid getting hepatitis A?

To avoid contracting hepatitis A, you can take the following preventive measures:

1. Vaccination: The hepatitis A vaccine is a highly effective way to prevent infection. It is recommended for individuals at higher risk, such as travelers to regions with high hepatitis A prevalence, individuals with chronic liver disease, men who have sex with men, and people who use drugs.

2. Practice good hygiene:

   a. Handwashing: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after handling objects that may be contaminated.

   b. Safe food handling: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption. Cook food thoroughly and maintain proper hygiene when handling and preparing food. Avoid consuming raw or undercooked shellfish.

   c. Safe water and beverages: Drink clean, safe water from reliable sources. If you are in an area with questionable water quality, drink bottled water or use water purification methods such as boiling or using water filters.

3. Maintain sanitary practices:

   a. Sanitation facilities: Use clean and well-maintained restroom facilities. If traveling to areas with inadequate sanitation, practice safe disposal of human waste by using designated facilities or following appropriate guidelines.

   b. Personal items: Avoid sharing personal items such as toothbrushes, razors, or needles that may come into contact with blood or bodily fluids.

4. Practice safe sexual behavior: Engage in safe sexual practices to reduce the risk of hepatitis A transmission, especially if you have multiple sexual partners or engage in high-risk sexual activities.

5. Be cautious when traveling: If traveling to regions with high hepatitis A prevalence, take extra precautions such as consuming only safe, well-cooked food, drinking bottled or purified water, and practicing good hygiene throughout your trip.

6. Consider immune globulin (IG) injections: If you have been exposed to hepatitis A and have not been previously vaccinated, receiving immune globulin injections within two weeks of exposure can provide temporary protection against the virus.

According to Hepatitis Foundation,  prevention is key to avoiding hepatitis A. By practicing good hygiene, maintaining sanitary practices, and being cautious in high-risk situations, you can significantly reduce your chances of contracting the virus. If you have specific concerns or are planning to travel, consult with a healthcare professional or travel medicine specialist for personalized advice and recommendations.