There are five hepatitis viruses that affect the liver: A, B, C, D, and E. These viruses, which may cause similar symptoms, are very different. There are vaccines for hepatitis A and B and all MSM who are sexually active should consider being vaccinated.

If you are sexually active, make (sexually transmitted infection) STI testing part of your routine. Blood testing is the primary way of diagnosing hepatitis. You have a few options:

Hepatitis A, also called infectious hepatitis, is a contagious viral disease that makes the liver swell. The virus is usually found in fecal matter of infected people and is most likely spread when people do not wash their hands after using the toilet, prepare food for others, touch others with contaminated hands or during any kind of anal sex.

Some people with hepatitis A show little or no signs of the disease. But, a variety of symptoms, including: jaundice (a yellowing of the eyes and skin), dark colored urine, pale/gray bowel movements, low-grade fever, headache, loss of appetite, muscle aches, nausea/vomiting, stomach pain, and fatigue.

Of course, a lot of these symptoms may be indications of other diseases and that’s why it’s so important to get tested for hepatitis if you have these symptoms.

There is a 2-dose vaccine that prevents hepatitis A and all MSM who are sexually active should consider being vaccinated. Some providers may recommend testing before vaccination to ensure that a person has not been exposed in the past (and are therefore already immune and do not need the vaccine).

There is no medical treatment for hepatitis A. Symptoms usually last a week or two, although and some people can feel sick for as long as a few months, but this is rare. Hepatitis A does not cause chronic illness.

There is a vaccine that prevents the spread of Hepatitis A therefore you should get vaccinated. The Hepatitis A vaccine only protects against Hepatitis A and not other types of viral hepatitis. As mentioned, people who have been infected are immune.

Vaccination is the best prevention for both you and your sexual partners.

Hepatitis A can be serious illness for someone with HIV infection. Talk to your doctor or go to a clinic if you think you’ve been infected with hepatitis A. If you haven’t been tested and vaccinated you should consider being vaccinated.

For additional information about Hepatitis A, B, or C, visit the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's Hepatitis website: click here

If you’d like more information about Hepatitis D and E, visit the CDC's Hepatitis site: click here