Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common mode of transmission for hepatitis A?

1. Through direct contact with blood.

2. Through contaminated water sources.

3. Through the fecal-oral route in settings like daycare centers.

4. Through insect bites.

The correct answer is: Through the fecal-oral route in settings like daycare centers.

The correct answer highlights the fecal-oral route as a common mode of transmission for hepatitis A. This virus is primarily spread when a person ingests food or water that has been contaminated with the feces of an infected individual. Settings like daycare centers are particularly susceptible, as close contact between children can facilitate the transmission. Kids may not always practice good hygiene, leading to increased potential for fecal contamination of food and surfaces. Direct contact with blood is not relevant for hepatitis A transmission, as this virus is not typically spread through blood. Contaminated water sources are involved but are a specific scenario under the broader fecal-oral transmission, which encompasses both water and food interactions. Insect bites are not a recognized vector for hepatitis A; this virus does not use insects as carriers for its transmission. By recognizing these aspects, it becomes clear why the fecal-oral route, particularly in communal or crowded environments like daycare centers, is a fundamental mechanism for spreading hepatitis A.