Viral Hepatitis
May 2009 marks the 14th anniversary of Hepatitis Awareness Month, and May 19th is World Hepatitis Day. These annual observances raise awareness about the global impact of viral hepatitis and the importance of preventing hepatitis-related liver disease, including liver cancer.
"Hepatitis" means inflammation of the liver and refers to a group of viral infections that affects the liver. The most common types are hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C – three different, contagious liver diseases caused by three unrelated viruses. Hepatitis A typically occurs in an "acute" or time limited form, while hepatitis B and hepatitis C can develop into a lifelong, chronic illness. In the United States, millions of people are chronically infected with viral hepatitis, many of whom don’t know they are infected.
How Is Hepatitis Spread?
Hepatitis A is usually spread when a person ingests fecal matter—even in microscopic amounts—from contacts with objects, food, or drinks contaminated by the feces or stool from an infected person. Although anyone can get hepatitis A, some people are at greater risk such as those who travel to or live in countries where hepatitis A is common, have sexual contact with someone who has hepatitis A, or are household members or caregivers of a person infected with hepatitis A.
Hepatitis B is usually spread when blood, semen, or another body fluid from a person infected with the hepatitis B virus enters the body of someone who is not infected. This can happen through sexual contact with an infected person or sharing needles, syringes, or other drug-injection equipment. Hepatitis B can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby at birth. Hepatitis B is not spread through breastfeeding, sharing eating utensils, hugging, kissing, holding hands, coughing, or sneezing.
Hepatitis C is usually spread when blood from a person infected with the hepatitis C virus enters the body of someone who is not infected. Today, most people become infected with the hepatitis C virus by sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs. Before widespread screening of the blood supply began in 1992, hepatitis was also commonly spread through blood transfusions and organ transplants.
Can Viral Hepatitis Be Prevented?
Yes, the best way to prevent hepatitis A and hepatitis B is by getting vaccinated. - All children should be vaccinated against hepatitis A and hepatitis B.
- Many adults are at risk for hepatitis A and/or hepatitis B and should also be vaccinated
- There is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C.
How Serious Is Viral Hepatitis?
Over time, about 15% to 25% of people with chronic hepatitis infection develop serious conditions, including liver damage, cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.
With early detection, many people can get lifesaving care and treatment that can limit disease progression, prevent cancer deaths and help break the cycle of unknowing transmissions to others.
If you think you might be at risk for viral hepatitis, talk to your health professional or health department about getting tested.
More Information
- Viral Hepatitis
- Viral Hepatitis Awareness -- May 2009, MMWR Weekly, May 19, 2009:58(18);503.
- World Hepatitis Day, May 19, 2009
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