Hepatitis A viruses, commonly abbreviated as HAV, refer to a group of RNA viruses that cause the disease known as hepatitis A. These viruses belong to the family Picornaviridae and the genus Hepatovirus. Hepatitis A viruses are small, non-enveloped viruses with a single-strand of positive-sense RNA as their genetic material.
HAV is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, usually due to ingestion of contaminated food or water. It can also be contracted through close personal contact with an infected individual, or occasionally via contaminated objects or surfaces. Due to its mode of transmission, hepatitis A viruses are prevalent in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene practices. The virus primarily targets the liver, leading to inflammation and damage to hepatic cells.
Symptoms of hepatitis A infection typically include fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, and pale stools. The severity of the disease can range from mild forms with no or minimal symptoms to more severe cases that may require hospitalization.
Prevention of HAV infection is possible through vaccination, which stimulates the body's immune system to produce protective antibodies against the virus. Vaccination is recommended for individuals at high risk, such as travelers to endemic areas, individuals in close contact with infected individuals, or people with certain underlying health conditions. Treatment for hepatitis A is primarily supportive and focused on managing symptoms, as the infection typically resolves on its own without causing long-term complications.
