How to disinfect and isolate in cases of hepatitis A
Dec 01, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Huang Yuhong
Introduction
For disinfection and isolation of hepatitis A, attention should be paid to disinfection of feces and excreta, tableware and kitchen utensils, household items, hand hygiene protection, and patient isolation management. The patient's feces and urine should be mixed with chlorine-containing disinfectant in the appropriate ratio, stirred thoroughly, and left for at least 2 hours before disposal. Gloves must be worn during handling, promptly removed after completion of procedures, and hands must be thoroughly washed.
Under normal circumstances, disinfection and isolation measures for hepatitis A should focus on the disinfection of feces and excreta, tableware and kitchen utensils, personal belongings, hand hygiene protection, and patient isolation management. The specific measures are as follows:
1. Disinfection of feces and excreta: The patient's feces and urine should be mixed with chlorine-based disinfectant (such as 84 disinfectant) in the recommended ratio, stirred thoroughly, and left for at least 2 hours before disposal. Gloves must be worn during handling, removed promptly after completion, and hands should be thoroughly washed to prevent transmission of pathogens through hand contact.
2. Disinfection of tableware and kitchen utensils: Dishes used by the patient—such as bowls, chopsticks, plates, spoons—as well as pots, spatulas, and cutting boards, should be washed separately and then boiled for disinfection for no less than 15 minutes. Alternatively, they may be soaked in a chlorine-based disinfectant for 30 minutes, then rinsed thoroughly with clean water to prevent cross-infection.
3. Disinfection of personal items: Linens used by the patient—including towels, clothing, bed sheets, and pillowcases—should be laundered separately from those of family members. An appropriate amount of chlorine-based disinfectant should be added during washing, followed by sun-drying for at least 4 hours. Frequently touched surfaces such as door handles, light switches, and faucets should be wiped with chlorine-based disinfectant 1–2 times daily to maintain surface cleanliness.
4. Hand hygiene protection: After caring for the patient or touching their belongings, hands should be washed thoroughly with running water and soap for at least 20 seconds. Hands must be especially washed before meals and after using the toilet. When running water is unavailable, alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used to reduce the risk of carrying pathogens on hands.
5. Patient isolation management: Patients in the acute phase should undergo home or hospital isolation for at least three weeks from the onset of illness. During isolation, patients should live in separate rooms, avoid sharing tableware, towels, and other personal items with family members, and refrain from participating in family meals or group activities to prevent spreading the virus to others.
All disinfection and isolation measures for hepatitis A must be strictly implemented without missing any critical steps. After the patient recovers, a thorough disinfection of the household environment should be conducted. Family members and close contacts should consult healthcare providers about receiving the hepatitis A vaccine to enhance personal protection.
