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 Content Editor

Hepatitis A

Learn about hepatitis A, who is at risk, and how it spreads.

About hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is an infection in the liver that is caused by the hepatitis A virus.

One out of 4 adults who get hepatitis A need to be admitted to a hospital. It’s rare, but you can die from a hepatitis A infection.

Learn more about hepatitis A.

Who is most at risk?

You are at high risk of getting hepatitis A if you:

  • have close contact with someone infected with hepatitis A
  • live in a community or travel to an area that has a high risk of hepatitis A
  • have a lifestyle that puts you at risk of getting the infection, such as using street drugs
  • are a man who has sex with men
  • need certain treatments for a bleeding disorder
  • have contact with the virus at work, such as some researchers and people who work with monkeys or other non-human primates

People who have liver problems, have a weak immune system, or are over age 60 years are at higher risk for getting seriously ill if they get hepatitis A.

How it spreads

It spreads through infected stool (poop) getting onto hands or into food and water, and then into the mouth.

Current as of: June 30, 2023
Author: Provincial Immunization Program, Alberta Health Services
Our work takes place on historical and contemporary Indigenous lands, including the territories of Treaty 6, Treaty 7 & Treaty 8 and the homeland of the Métis Nation of Alberta and 8 Métis Settlements. We also acknowledge the many Indigenous communities that have been forged in urban centres across Alberta.