The Victorian Department of Human Services has recognised an increase in the number of hepatitis A cases across the state.

GPs are asked to consider the diagnosis of hepatitis A in any person presenting with acute hepatitis. Patients may present with symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, tiredness, fever, abdominal pain, dark urine, pale faeces and jaundice.

The incubation period is 2 to 8 weeks, and transmission occurs via the faecal-oral route, through the ingestion of contaminated food or water, or through direct hand-to-mouth contact with the faeces of an infectious case.

Cases are infectious two weeks before and one week after the onset of jaundice/dark urine (whichever is first).

Further information about hepatitis A is available: http://www.health.vic.gov.au/ideas/diseases/hepa  or from the Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Unit: 1300 651 160