AAA Food Manager Certification Practice Test

A serious foodborne illness that is commonly transmitted by fecal-oral routes is caused by which virus?

1. Norovirus

2. Hepatitis A

3. Rotavirus

4. Salmonella

The correct answer is: Hepatitis A

The correct answer is Hepatitis A, which is a serious foodborne illness transmitted through the fecal-oral route. This virus primarily spreads when an individual ingests food or water contaminated with the feces of an infected person. Hepatitis A can lead to liver inflammation and is particularly concerning in food service settings, where hygiene practices become critical for preventing outbreaks. Hepatitis A can remain infectious in food or water for extended periods, which underlines the importance of proper handwashing and sanitation in food handling environments. Understanding this transmission route is essential for food safety training, emphasizing the need to prevent contamination during food preparation and serving. In contrast, although Norovirus (another highly contagious virus) is also transmitted via the fecal-oral route, it more commonly causes outbreaks in settings such as cruise ships and nursing homes, and while it can result in severe gastrointestinal issues, it is not classified as a liver disease like Hepatitis A. Rotavirus primarily affects infants and young children and is more associated with gastroenteritis rather than being classified as a foodborne illness in adults. Salmonella is a bacterial infection that is commonly associated with undercooked poultry, eggs, and other animal products rather than being a virus. Understanding the specific characteristics of each