What is the most common route of transmission for Hepatitis A?

• A. Blood
• B. Percutaneous
• C. Mucosal
• D. Fecal-oral

Answer: (D)

Hepatitis A is most commonly transmitted through the fecal-oral route. The virus is shed in stool and remains stable in the environment, so infection typically occurs when a person ingests food or water contaminated with feces or when close contact leads to fecal-oral exposure. Outbreaks are often linked to contaminated food (for example, shellfish from polluted waters) or poor sanitation, underscoring ingestion as the main pathway. This route contrasts with bloodborne or percutaneous transmissions seen with other hepatitis viruses, which is why fecal-oral exposure is the best explanation for how Hepatitis A spreads. Vaccination and good hand hygiene are key prevention strategies.