Hepatitis

Hepatitis

What is Viral Hepatitis?
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, most commonly caused by a viral infection.  There are five main hepatitis viruses, referred to as types A, B, C,...
What is hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is an inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). The virus is primarily spread when an uninfected (and unvaccinated) perso...
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis A?
Symptoms of hepatitis A range from mild to severe and can include: fever malaise loss of appetite diarrhoea nausea abdominal discomfort dark-coloure...
How is hepatitis A treated?
There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A. Recovery from symptoms following infection may be slow and can take several weeks or months. What is Vir...
What is the best way to prevent the spread of hepatitis A?
Improved sanitation, food safety and immunization are the most effective ways to combat hepatitis A. The spread of hepatitis A can be reduced by: adequat...
What is hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a potentially life-threatening liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can cause chronic infection and puts people at high ...
What are the symptoms of hepatitis B?
Most people do not experience any symptoms when newly infected. However, some people have acute illness with symptoms that last several weeks, including: ...
How is hepatitis B treated?
Chronic hepatitis B infection can be treated with medicines, including oral antiviral agents.  Treatment can slow the progression of cirrhosis, reduce inci...
Can the hepatitis B vaccine be administered to children?
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that all infants receive the hepatitis B vaccine as soon as possible after birth, preferably within 24 hours,...
Is there a hepatitis B vaccine available?
Yes, a safe and effective vaccine that offers 98% to 100% protection against hepatitis B is available. Preventing hepatitis B infection averts the developme...