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Hepatitis A virus could cause  serious liver illness. Hepatitis A is found all over the world. It is common in countries with poor sanitary conditions. Hepatitis A is contagious.

You can get Hepatitis A by close contact with someone who’s it. You can get it by eating food prepared by someone with Hepatitis A. You can also get Hepatitis A by drinking dirty water that contains the virus.

Everyone, specifically individuals  with Hepatitis A should clean their hands often with soap and water. Be certain to always clean after using the restroom or changing a diaper. Clean your hands before eating or preparing food.

You can also get Hepatitis A by drinking water that contains the virus.

There’s a safe vaccine to help prevent Hepatitis A. You will not get Hepatitis A from the vaccine.

Talk with your primary care provider about getting the Hepatitis A vaccine if –  

•  You’re planning to travel to a country where many individuals  have Hepatitis A

•  You have been told that you’ve chronic liver disease, including infection with Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C

•  You use illegal drugs

•  You’re a man who has sex with men

•  You have a blood clotting-factor disorder

You will need to get a total of two shots. You should get the second shot 6 months to 12 months after the first one. After each shot, you might have some soreness where the needle went in. You might also feel tired or have a headache.