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Updated: Sept. 4, 2026

Find Hepatitis Services Near You

What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a short-term viral infection causing inflammation of the liver. Infection can be prevented by receiving the hepatitis A vaccine.

What are the Symptoms?

Most people who get hepatitis A feel sick for several weeks, but they usually recover completely and do not have lasting liver damage. Some children and adults who become infected will not have symptoms, however, they can still spread the virus.
For those who do have symptoms, they usually appear two to seven weeks after being exposed. Symptoms include:

  • fever
  • fatigue or feeling tired
  • darker urine
  • lighter stool color
  • stomach pain
  • nausea and/or vomiting
  • loss of appetite
  • yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)

How Do People Catch This Disease?

Most people get hepatitis A through close contact with someone who has the infection or through eating food or drinking water contaminated by an infected person. 

Who is at Increased Risk?

Anyone who has not had a vaccine or been previously infected can get hepatitis A. Certain adults may be at higher risk for hepatitis A, including people who use drugs, international travelers, men who sleep with men, and people experiencing homelessness. Some health conditions, including chronic liver disease and weakened immune systems, can increase the severity of hepatitis A infections.

What if I Think I Have a Hepatitis A Infection?

If you think you may have hepatitis A, see your medical provider. Your healthcare provider can order a blood test to determine if you have hepatitis A infection. There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A. Stay home from work or school, especially if you are a food handler, childcare worker, or healthcare professional to prevent spreading the illness. Do not prepare or serve food to others.

What Can be Done to Stop the Spread of Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A Vaccine

The hepatitis A vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others against infection. Hepatitis A vaccine locations are available at vaccinefinder.org and at DPH health departments across the state. To schedule an appointment for vaccination at your local health department, call 1-855-472-3432 or schedule online using Web Chat.

People in high-risk groups should contact their primary care provider if experiencing symptoms of hepatitis A.

If you have been exposed to hepatitis A and have not been vaccinated, getting the vaccine within two weeks can help prevent illness. Contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to learn about your options.

Who Should be Vaccinated?

All children are recommended to get two doses of the hepatitis A vaccine. Consult your child’s pediatrician regarding dosing.
Adults who were not vaccinated as children may be vaccinated at any time. Consult with your medical provider to see if hepatitis A vaccine is appropriate for you.

DPH recommends that people speak with their healthcare provider to make sure they are up to date with recommended vaccines.

Current hepatitis A vaccination is also a requirement to attend childcare or school in South Carolina unless there is a valid exemption.

Other Important Prevention Measures

  • Washing hands after using the restroom and changing diapers, and before preparing food.
  • Encouraging childcare centers and food service workers to follow strict handwashing and sanitation procedures.

What is DPH Doing Now to Prepare for a Hepatitis A Outbreak in South Carolina?

Hepatitis A is a reportable disease in South Carolina. DPH’s team of physicians, nurses, and epidemiologists routinely monitors cases and outbreaks of all reportable conditions, working closely with medical providers, schools, food establishments, childcare and long-term care facilities to address cases and outbreaks as they occur. DPH provides clinical resources, educational information and clinical consultations for medical providers. 

DPH has also convened a workgroup to create a plan to eliminate viral hepatitis in the state. South Carolina’s viral hepatitis committee, HepFreeSC, is comprised of a diverse group of stakeholders, including government representatives, researchers, healthcare providers, community organizations, and advocates who are experts in viral hepatitis and related fields.

What Actions Does DPH Take When a Case of Hepatitis A is Confirmed?

DPH initiates an investigation for every reported positive hepatitis A lab test and works closely with cases, providers and involved facilities to recommend prevention and control measures. In addition, DPH monitors ongoing outbreaks in the United States and shares relevant information with medical providers through the South Carolina Health Alert Network.

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