Hepatitis A is a virus that is carried by contaminated food or
water. The virus is shed in the stools of an infected person
during the incubation period of 15 to 45 days before symptoms
occur and during the first week of illness. Blood and secretions
may also be infectious. The virus does not remain in the body
after the infection has resolved, and there is no carrier state
(a person who spreads the disease to others but does not become
ill). How This Hurts the Liver The liver becomes inflamed. This
causes short-term mild to severe symptoms. There is no specific
treatment for hepatitis A. Rest is recommended during the acute
phase of the disease when the symptoms are most severe. People
with conditions acute hepatitis should avoid alcohol and any
substances that are toxic to the liver (hepatotoxic) including
acetaminophen (Tylenol®).