Hepatitis A is a viral infection which can lead to inflammation of the liver. The virus is usually transmitted through contaminated food and water and is therefore most prevalent in areas with poor sanitation. Hepatitis A can also be transmitted between individuals with poor hygiene.

Signs and symptoms include:

• Fever
• Muscular aches
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Weight loss
• Abdominal pain
• Yellow discolouration of the skin and/or eyes

As well as vaccinations you can prevent contracting Hepatitis A by:

• Avoiding ice from unknown water sources
• Only drinking water that is treated or from a sealed bottle
• Avoiding uncooked food
• Only eating fruit which can be peeled
• Maintaining good personal hygiene

Vaccination should ideally occur at least two weeks before travel. Usually an initial injection will be followed by a booster injection to provide long-term protection.