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Hepatitis A

Seriously - Get Vaccinated

North Carolina has recently seen more cases of Hepatitis A than usual among gay and bisexual people.  Hepatitis A can be prevented by a safe and effective vaccine. If you are a man who has sexual contact with men and would like to get a free hepatitis A vaccine, contact your local health department or call the NC Immunization Branch at 919-707-5575 (available 8am-5pm Monday through Friday) for information on where to get vaccinated.

Hepatitis A vaccine image

What is hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a contagious liver disease that caused by a virus. It is spread when small, undetectable amounts of contaminated feces (poop) get into your mouth.

You can get hepatitis A:

  • By swallowing food or drink contaminated with the virus
  • Through oral or anal sex
  • By touching surfaces or objects contaminated with the virus, then putting your hands in your mouth

What are the symptoms of hepatitis A?

If symptoms develop, they can appear abruptly and can include:

  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Dark urine
  • Clay-colored stools

Who is at risk for hepatitis A?

Although anyone can get hepatitis A, in the United States, certain groups of people are at higher risk, such as:

  • People with direct contact with someone who has hepatitis A
  • Men who have sexual contact with men
  • People who use drugs, both injection and non-injection drugs
  • People who are homeless
  • Travelers to countries where hepatitis A is common
  • People with clotting factor disorders, such as hemophilia

How can hepatitis A be prevented?

The best way to prevent hepatitis A is through vaccination with the hepatitis A vaccine. Practicing good hand hygiene – including thoroughly washing hands after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food – also plays an important role in preventing the spread of hepatitis A.

Where can I get the hepatitis A vaccine?

The vaccine is available for free at all local health departments for people who are at risk, which includes men who have sexual contact with men.  To find the contact information for your local health department visit this website.

You may also call the NC Immunization Branch at 919-707-5575 (available 8am-5pm Monday through Friday) for information on where to get vaccinated.

Information for the Community

 


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