Hepatitis A

Clear→ stable

BloodborneGastrointestinalVaccine-preventableVaccine available

Current NYS Status

111 cases in 2024 — near the 5-year baseline of ~210.

2024 statewide cases: 111

Source: NYSDOH Annual Communicable Disease Report 2024 + 5-yr baseline

What is it?

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). NYS reported 111 cases in 2024. Unlike hepatitis B and C, hepatitis A does not cause chronic liver disease and most people recover fully.

How it spreads

Spreads when a person unknowingly ingests microscopic amounts of feces from an infected person. This can occur through contaminated food or water, close contact, or sex. Outbreaks have been linked to homeless populations, drug use, and travel.

Symptoms

Fatigue, nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, dark urine, and jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes). Symptoms last a few weeks to several months. Older adults may have more severe illness.

Who is at risk?

Travelers to countries with high hepatitis A rates; men who have sex with men; people who use drugs; people experiencing homelessness; those with chronic liver disease or clotting disorders.

What you can do

💉Get vaccinated — two doses provide lifelong protection

🛡Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the bathroom and before eating

🛡When traveling internationally, drink bottled water and avoid raw foods in high-risk areas

Vaccine information

Two-dose hepatitis A vaccine provides lifelong protection. Recommended for all children at age 1, travelers to endemic areas, and people at elevated risk.

Tier B — Annual report tracking

Based on NYSDOH annual communicable disease report. Threat level reflects 2024 case counts compared to the 5-year baseline.

Seasonality: year round

This information is for general public health awareness and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.