How is hepatitis A primarily transmitted?

Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted by the fecal-oral route. This mode of transmission occurs when an individual ingests food or water that has been contaminated with the feces of an infected person. The virus can survive in the environment and is highly infectious, particularly in settings where hygiene and sanitation are inadequate.

While contaminated water can also be a source of hepatitis A (which relates to one of the other choices), the primary and most notable transmission pathway is through direct fecal contamination. This means that outbreaks often occur in situations where people are in close contact, such as in crowded living conditions or during travel to areas with poor sanitation. Additionally, the fecal-oral route can encompass ingestion of food handled by a person carrying the virus.

Understanding the primary transmission method is crucial for preventive measures, such as vaccination and practicing good hygiene, including hand washing, to reduce the risk of infection.