EDUCATION CENTER
WHAT HEPATITIS IS
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. The condition can be self-limiting or can progress to fibrosis, cirrhosis or liver cancer. In most people the virus clears up within 6 months and they become immune. But some people (about one in ten of those who get hepatitis B as an adult) remain infectious and may go on to develop cirrhosis or cancer of the liver over a period of years (WHO, 2024).
TYPES OF HEPATITIS
There are 5 main hepatitis viruses, referred to as types A, B, C, D and E.
In particular, types B and C lead to chronic disease in hundreds of millions of people and, together, are the most common cause of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer (WHO).
Hepatitis A and E are typically caused by ingestion of contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B, C and D usually occur as a result of parenteral contact with infected blood.
TRANSMISSION MODES
Common modes of transmission for hepatitis B include:
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blood transfusion of contaminated blood or blood products
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invasive medical procedures using contaminated equipment
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from an infected mother to baby at birth
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through unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person
SIGNS and SYMPTOMS
Some people who have acute hepatitis B have no symptoms at all, whilst others may have a severe illness including
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Jaundice (yellow skin and eyes)
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Fatigue / tiredness
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Poor appetite and weight loss
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Diarrhoea or Nausea / Vomiting
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Joint pains
PREVENTION and TREATMENT
Although hepatitis B is the most dangerous there is a safe and effective vaccine available to prevent it.
However not everyone can afford it due to cost.
EDUCATION / AWARENESS RAISING
Safe Practices:
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No needle, razor blades or toothbrush sharing
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Use sterile equipment eg at barbers or tattoo parlours
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Screen blood transfusion products before administration
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Use condoms especially with multiple partners
People who are infected with hepatitis B should seek medical help to:
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have viral load tests
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have liver scans (as required)
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to access the correct medication if / when the need arises