How is hepatitis A primarily transmitted?

Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food or water. This means that the virus can be found in food that has been handled by someone who is infected or in water that has been contaminated with the feces of an infected person. The transmission risk is particularly high in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene practices where food and water sources may be contaminated.

The nature of hepatitis A transmission highlights the importance of maintaining proper food safety and hygiene. Outbreaks commonly occur in settings where food is prepared in unsanitary conditions, making it crucial to ensure that all food is cooked properly and potable water is used. The virus is resilient and can survive outside the body for extended periods, which underscores the necessity for thorough disinfection and washing protocols.

Other modes of transmission, such as through blood transfusions or sexual contact, are not the primary routes for hepatitis A, distinguishing it from other forms of hepatitis like hepatitis B or hepatitis C. While contact with infected individuals can increase exposure risk, particularly in dense communities or among close contacts, the main driver of hepatitis A infections remains food or water contamination.