Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious, short-term liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. Getting vaccinated and practicing good hand hygiene are the best ways to protect against hepatitis A.

Hepatitis A is caused by a contagious virus that infects the liver—it can lead to serious liver problems. The virus spreads through the feces of people who have the virus. If a person with the virus doesn’t wash their hands after going to the bathroom, feces can get on their hands and can transfer to objects, food, and drinks. When these things are shared, other people can unknowingly swallow the virus. If a person who has the virus comes in close contact or touches other people—this includes sex—the virus can also spread.

To schedule an appointment for a hepatitis A vaccination at the Florida Department of Health in Collier County, call 239-252-8207.

To learn more about hepatitis A, visit VEST | Florida Department of Health (floridahealth.gov)

Related Resources:

Hepatitis A Fact Sheet