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Hepatitis Health Center

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What Increases Your Risk

People who practice certain behaviors or have certain jobs are at higher risk for hepatitis A. If you are a member of a high-risk group, you should receive the hepatitis A vaccine.

Risk factors for hepatitis A include:

  • Eating food that has been prepared by someone who is infected with the hepatitis A virus and who has poor hygiene.
  • Eating raw or undercooked shellfish (such as oysters or clams).
  • Eating uncooked food (such as unpeeled fruits or vegetables) or drinking tap water or well water while traveling in countries where hepatitis A is common.
  • Living in a community where hepatitis A is common and outbreaks occur (largely a risk factor for young children).
  • Living in a household with someone who has hepatitis A.

Lifestyle factors that increase your risk for hepatitis A include:

  • Traveling to countries where hepatitis A is common.
  • Being a man who has sex with men.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: November 16, 2006
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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