Final answer:
The early signs of viral hepatitis do not typically include a cough; therefore, the answer to the student's question is 'A. Loss of appetite and a cough'.
Step-by-step explanation:
Viral hepatitis is characterized by a range of symptoms linked to liver inflammation. Among the early signs and symptoms of viral hepatitis are jaundice, nausea, vomiting, and joint pain. However, a cough is not typically associated with this group of diseases. The correct answer to the student's question, regarding which symptom is not an early sign of viral hepatitis, is therefore 'A. Loss of appetite and a cough'.
While both loss of appetite and a cough can be symptoms of various illnesses, in the case of viral hepatitis, a cough is not a common symptom. The other options listed (B. Vomiting, fever, and fatigue, C. Pain in the muscles and joints, and D. Jaundice and abdominal pain) are all recognized symptoms that can be associated with viral hepatitis.