Hepatitis A
By: Sarah
Symptoms
Symptoms may include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, low-grade fever, dark urine, diarrhea, and joint pain.
Causes
Usually spread when a person ingests even a tiny amount of fecal matter. Can be transmitted trough food if someone with the virus does not properly wash their hands, eating raw shellfish, being in close contact with someone who has the virus.
Replication
After entry into the host cell, the virus loses the capsid and the uncoated RNA induces the host cell to produce the viral polyprotein without shutting off the protein synthesis of the cell. Among the viral proteins there is a protease for the synthesis of structural proteins and a polymerase for the replication of viral RNA which becomes rapidly encapsidated into new viruses
Treatment
The Hep A virus can clear up on its own within 1 to 2 months with rest and adequate hydration. You can also get a vaccine, and avoid alcohol.
Prevention
You can prevent Hep A by getting a vaccine, there are 2 doses. One initial vaccine and a booster shot 6 months later.