Hawai‘i State Department of Health

Viral Hepatitis Education and Prevention Program

The term “hepatitis” means inflammation of the liver and viral hepatitis refers to a collection of viruses that can affect the liver. There are three main hepatitis viruses: hepatitis A, B and C. Because many of the same behaviors that put one at risk for HIV and STDs can also transmit viral hepatitis, the STD/AIDS Prevention Branch has a Viral Hepatitis Education and Prevention Program to raise awareness about viral hepatitis.

Hepatitis A: Basic Information

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is spread through fecal/oral contact when fecal matter infected with hepatitis A enters the body through the mouth. The most common way to get hepatitis A is through close personal contact or through contaminated food and water. Hepatitis A an acute or short term disease and there is a vaccine available to prevent infection. For more information on hepatitis A, click here.

Hepatitis B: Basic Information

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is spread through blood and other bodily fluids. The most common way to get hepatitis B is through unprotected sex or from mother to baby. Hepatitis B is usually an acute or short term disease though some people develop chronic, or long term hepatitis B. There is a vaccine available to prevent infection. For more information on hepatitis B, click here.

Hepatitis C: Basic Information

Hepatitis C virus is spread through direct blood-to-blood contact. The most common way to get hepatitis C is through sharing injection drug use equipment or getting a blood transfusion prior to 1992. Hepatitis C is usually a chronic, or long term infection and there is no vaccine available to protect against hepatitis C. For more information on hepatitis C, click here.

Description of Viral Hepatitis Services

Viral Hepatitis Testing and Immunization Information

Viral Hepatitis Informational Resources

Viral Hepatitis Services in Hawai‘i

Frequently Asked Questions about Viral Hepatitis

Viral Hepatitis Information for Medical Providers