Hepatitis A Immunity Blood Test, from our experts to you.
Dr Sam Rodgers MBBS, MRCGPChief Medical Officer
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What is HAV?
Hepatitis A (HAV), or infectious hepatitis, is an acute disease of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus. It is mostly spread by food or drink contaminated with faeces. People infected have often travelled to parts of the world where hygiene is poor. In many cases, there is no illness or a flu-like illness with mild jaundice and does not progress to chronic hepatitis. Unlike hepatitis B and hepatitis C, HAV does not cause chronic (ongoing, long-term) disease. Although the liver does become inflamed and swollen, it heals completely in most people without any long-term damage. Once you have had HAV, you develop lifelong immunity and cannot get the disease again.
When do HAV antibodies develop?
Around eight to twelve weeks after the initial hepatitis A viral infection, hepatitis A IgG antibodies are produced and remain in the blood for lifelong protection (immunity) against the virus.
What's the difference between HAV IgG and IgM antibodies?
The presence of hepatitis A IgG antibodies in your blood means you have had hepatitis A viral infection in the past, whereas IgM antibodies indicate a current infection.
What's Included?
How to prepare for your test?
Special Instructions
Prepare for your Hepatitis A Immunity Blood Test by following these instructions. Take this test at least 2 weeks after hepatitis A exposure Do not take biotin supplements for two days before this test, discuss this with your doctor if it is prescribed.