Viral Hepatitis
More Canadians than ever before are traveling to warm, tropical climates for vacation, business, and adventure. Many countries have higher rates of certain infectious disease than Canada and travelers to these countries may be at risk. Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B are two diseases that travelers can safely and effectively protect themselves against through vaccination.
The term "hepatitis" means an infection, or inflammation of the liver. There are numerous causes of hepatitis, some of which are viruses. Hepatitis A is one specific viral cause of hepatitis. Symptoms of hepatitis A include weakness, fever, diarrhea, and stomach upset. The most noticeable symptom is jaundice, which is when the skin and eyes turn yellow. Symptoms can persist for up to six months, which can lead to prolonged work or school absence. Recovery is usually complete, with death a very rare occurrence.
The hepatitis A virus is found throughout the world, with infrequent occurrence here in Canada. Spread by what is called the fecal-oral route, hepatitis A is usually caught by eating food, or drinking water, which has been contaminated with the hepatitis A virus. We are fortunate in most parts of Canada to have proper sewage systems and strict food safety, so infections in Canada are infrequent. Many developing countries have much higher rates of hepatitis A. These countries may also have less developed sewage and water treatment systems, and less stringent food handling. Countries where travelers are at higher risk of hepatitis A infection include those in the Caribbean, South America, Africa, Eastern Europe and Russia, and Asia. Travelers to these countries should consider vaccination against hepatitis A. Other ways to prevent hepatitis A include frequent hand washing, drinking and brushing your teeth with only bottled or sterilized water, and avoiding ice in drinks. Only eat vegetables that are cooked, avoiding salads and uncooked seafood. Choose fruits that you peel yourself and avoid food from street venders.
Hepatitis B is another type of viral hepatitis. The hepatitis B virus is spread primarily through contact with body fluids and blood. People catch hepatitis B through unprotected sex, sharing needles or razors, and occasionally through occupational exposure to blood (usually medical or emergency service workers). Travelers can be at risk if they receive medical treatment or blood transfusions in a country with less stringent medical standards. All blood and blood products in Canada are screened for hepatitis B. Hepatitis B is a more serious infection and can cause the same symptoms as hepatitis A, but causes chronic and often-fatal liver disease in about 10 % of people infected. Fortunately there is a safe and effective vaccine for hepatitis B. If you are traveling outside of Canada, see your family doctor or nurse practitioner for advice on hepatitis B vaccination. Anyone who works in health care or emergency services should consider vaccination. The hepatitis B vaccine will also protect people who are at risk through sexual contact. Condoms will also help reduce the risk of contracting hepatitis B through sexual intercourse. There is also a vaccine that combines the hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccines together in one series.