Resolved question:
I have had blood tests that show that I have hepatitis a. But I can't seem to get information from my doctor about how contagious I am. When I am at church, is it okay to shake people's hands, hug, take communion? What about when I cough? What about going out to eat with friends and double dipping chips into salsa? As of a week ago, I had and still have five of the seven main symptoms. My husband went to Egypt a few weeks ago and contracted it. I guess I got it from him. My labs were positive for Hepatitis A. I just don't know what I can and can't do to not spread it.
Submitted:
4 Days
Category:
Family Physician-GP
Hello. Thank you for posting your query at DoctorSpring.com
I understand your concern.
Hepatitis A, is a food/water-borne disease, is self limiting, and the recovery can take up to a month or two. You will be contagious only when somebody shares food with you, or shares water with you. It is better to isolate yourself for a bit, and not to share food or water with anyone. Mere shaking hands, or hugging anyone doesn't spread the disease. Not even coughing, since it is not a respiratory infection.
Yes it is possible you got it from him, since you stayed in close contact with him. Please follow a bland diet for the next one month, take Syp. Silymarin 2 teaspoon daily at night time and it will enhance the recovery. It can make you extremely weak, make sure you're having enough fluids and you're adequately hydrated. Check your liver values after a week. It will be a good indicator of the current infection.
Feel free to discuss further,
Regards