Home > Encyclopedia of Children's Health > Hepatitis A

Definition

Hepatitis A is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV).

Description

Hepatitis A is a form of viral hepatitis also known as infectious hepatitis, due to its ability to be spread through personal contact. Hepatitis A is a milder liver disease than hepatitis B, and asymptomatic infections are very common, especially in children. Hepatitis A does not cause a carrier state or chronic liver disease. Once the infection ends, there is no lasting phase of illness. However, it is not uncommon to have a second episode of symptoms about a month after the first; this is called a relapse.

Transmission

HAV is found in the stool...