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.
Hepatitis A Prevention 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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