. Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the liver.
. HAV is transmitted through the fecal-oral route, often via contaminated food or water or close contact with an infected person. Poor sanitation and hygiene are common risk factors.
. Symptoms may include fever, fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, dark urine, jaundice, and pale stools. While the infection is usually self-limiting, it can sometimes lead to severe complications, especially in older adults or those with underlying liver disease.
. HAV Ab Total testing detects both IgM and IgG antibodies and is primarily used to assess exposure to the virus or immunity status.
. To assess immunity: A positive HAV Ab Total test with a negative IgM indicates past infection or immunity due to vaccination.
. To detect exposure: A positive result can also indicate recent or current infection, which should be confirmed with specific IgM testing.




