Hepatitis A

The hepatitis A virus is passed through fecal bowel movements. It infects another person when the fecal virus gets on objects or food that go in another person's mouth. Thorough handwashing after toileting and before handling food is the most important factor in the prevention of this disease. Therefore, you cannot get hepatitis simply by being in the same room with someone who has hepatitis. It is important to note that infection with this virus in children will probably by mild and perhaps show no symptoms at all, yet the child may still be contagious. The symptoms of hepatitis are nausea, vomiting, fever, cramps, fatigue, dark urine, light-colored stool, and yellow skin and eyes. If you suspect that your child or another family member has these symptoms, please contact your physician and notify your Health Services. You may call Public Health - Seattle & King County at (206) 587-2774 for more information. There are also informational pamphlets available in the school office.

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