Hepatitis A warning

Medical experts have urged childcare workers to be aware of and protect themselves against Hepatitis A.

According to the National Health and Medical Research Council occupationally acquired hepatitis A is a common occurrence in day care and preschool staff and is the most frequent vaccine-preventable disease to affect them.

Hepatitis A is a disease caused by a virus commonly spread from person to person through direct or indirect contact with faeces, or by consuming contaminated food or water.

Childcare workers are at risk of contracting hepatitis A because young children wear nappies or are toilet training, have difficulty washing their own hands and often put objects into their mouths. Symptoms may include aches and pains, fever, nausea, lack of appetite and abdominal discomfort, sometimes followed a few days later by jaundice, dark urine and pale faeces.

Vaccination is recommended for childcare and preschool workers.

More information:

Child and Youth Health: health topics

South Australian Government: You've Got What? 
 

The information provided in this article is intended as a guide only. Always consult your doctor if you or your child is suffering any medical complaint. Any websites referred to by Australian Family contain information moderated by government and medical institutions or organisations.

This article was first published in Australian Family Magazine, October 2002. Updated July 2009.