Hepatitis A transmitted by food

Clin Infect Dis. 2004 Mar 1;38(5):705-15. doi: 10.1086/381671. Epub 2004 Feb 11.

Abstract

Hepatitis A is caused by hepatitis A virus (HAV). Transmission occurs by the fecal-oral route, either by direct contact with an HAV-infected person or by ingestion of HAV-contaminated food or water. Foodborne or waterborne hepatitis A outbreaks are relatively uncommon in the United States. However, food handlers with hepatitis A are frequently identified, and evaluation of the need for immunoprophylaxis and implementation of control measures are a considerable burden on public health resources. In addition, HAV-contaminated food may be the source of hepatitis A for an unknown proportion of persons whose source of infection is not identified.

MeSH terms

  • Disease Outbreaks*
  • Disinfection
  • Food / virology*
  • Food Contamination*
  • Food Handling
  • Food Microbiology
  • Hepatitis A / epidemiology
  • Hepatitis A / prevention & control
  • Hepatitis A / transmission*
  • Hepatitis A Virus, Human*
  • Humans
  • Hygiene
  • United States / epidemiology
  • Water Microbiology