DefinitionHepatitis A is inflammation (irritation and swelling) of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus.See also:HepatitisHepatitis A vaccineHepatitis BHepatitis CAlternative NamesViral hepatitisCauses, incidence, and risk factorsThe hepatitis A virus is found mostly in the stools and blood of an infected person about 15 - 45 days before symptoms occur and during the first week of illness.You can catch hepatitis A if:You eat or drink food or water that has been contaminated by the virus (fruits, vegetables, shellfish, ice, and water are common sources of the hepatitis A virus)You come in contact with the stool or blood of a person who currently has the diseaseA person with hepatitis A does not wash his or her hands properly after going to the bathroom and touches other objects or food