Prevention of Hepatitis A (Cont.)

Hepatitis A ImmunoGlobulin

Immunoglobulin is a preparation of antibodies that can be given before exposure for short-term protection against hepatitis A and for persons who have already been exposed to the virus. It must be given within two weeks after exposure for maximum protection.
 

Prevention of Hepatitis A in High-Risk Situations

Because so many cases of hepatitis A are due to close contact with an infected person, you should always practice good personal hygiene, especially by washing your hands after using the toilet or changing a diaper and before fixing food or eating.
 
Other things you can do to help prevent hepatitis A in high-risk situations include:
 
  • Boil water or drink bottled water in areas where there is a risk for hepatitis A contamination. Also, do not use ice cubes or wash fruits and vegetables in tap water.
 
  • Eat cooked foods and fruits that you can peel, and avoid eating vegetables or fruits that could have been washed with contaminated water, such as lettuce.
 
  • Avoid eating raw or steamed shellfish, such as oysters, that live in contaminated waters.
 
  • Use condoms correctly every time you have sex.
 
  • Wear gloves if you have to touch other people's stool. Wash your hands afterwards.
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD