Quick Answer
Hepatitis A spreads through fecal-oral contact, including sexual practices involving oral-anal contact (rimming). It is self-limiting and preventable with a safe vaccine. Outbreaks among MSM are common.
- ~4,000-10,000 cases in recent outbreaks (CDC)
- Viral, self-limiting, preventable with vaccine
- Treatment: supportive care only
- Vaccine: 2-dose series, highly effective
Context Most Pages Skip
Hepatitis A is the STI most people forget about — until an outbreak hits their community.
Key Facts
The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all men who have sex with men, people with chronic liver disease, and travelers to endemic areas. It is a 2-dose series with lifelong protection.
⚕️ This page is educational and does not replace advice from a licensed clinician. If you may have been exposed to an STI, get tested — most infections are manageable, and many are fully curable.
Sources & Further Reading
- CDC — Sexually Transmitted Infections
- CDC STI Treatment Guidelines
- WHO — Sexually transmitted infections fact sheet
- MedlinePlus — Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Figures reflect CDC surveillance and WHO estimates; they are population statistics, not personal risk predictions.