Hepatitis A is TOTALLY PREVENTABLE. Although outbreaks continue to occur in the United States (see Recent Outbreaks), outbreaks NEED NOT OCCUR if responsible preventive measures are taken.

Responsible restaurant managers will exclude ill food-handlers from work, with pay. Food handlers must also be taught to always wash their hands with soap and water after using the bathroom, changing a diaper, and certainly before preparing food. Cooking to a temperature of 185 degrees F or higher will inactivate Hepatitis A virus.

After a known exposure to the Hepatitis A virus, administration of a shot of Immune Globulin should be considered. If administered within 2 weeks of the exposure, it will usually be effective in preventing or at least ameliorating the disease.