The A, B and C of Hepatitis

Hepatitis is a medical condition that occurs when an infected person's liver gets inflamed. There are several reasons that can result in hepatitis, including viral infections, heavy alcohol abuse, and autoimmune conditions.

Mostly, hepatitis is a result of an infection caused by a virus. Such a condition is called viral hepatitis. Today, we will talk about the three most common types of viral hepatitis diseases:

• hepatitis A

• hepatitis B

• hepatitis C

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a result of hepatitis A virus infection in a person and is relatively uncommon.

Regions, where hepatitis A is more common, are:

• Africa

• Asia

• Central and South America

• Eastern Europe

How it is transmitted

Hepatitis A virus can be present in the fecal matter and blood of an infected person. Hence, it is transmitted via the oral route, involving ingestion of the virus into a person through the feces.

Different ways you can get hepatitis A infection are:

• Having in-person contact with a hepatitis A-infected patient

• Sexual contact with a person who hosts the virus

• Consuming contaminated food or drink

• Eating undercooked shellfish

• Being near contaminated toilets and diaper changing areas

 

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus.

Regions, where hepatitis B is more common, are:

• Western Pacific Region

• African Region

How it is transmitted

You can contract the hepatitis B virus through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of a hepatitis B infected person.

Different ways you can get hepatitis B infection are:

• Sexual contact with someone with hepatitis B virus infection

• Sharing injections and other tools

• Born to hepatitis B-infected parent

• Direct contact with the blood of an infected individual

• Sharing personal belongings and toiletries like razors or nail clippers.

 

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C occurs by the infection caused by the hepatitis C virus.

Regions, where hepatitis C is more common, are:

• Eastern Mediterranean Region

• European Region

How it is transmitted

The Hepatitis C virus is spread through blood and other bodily fluids.

Different ways you can get hepatitis C infection are:

• Sharing injections

• Born to hepatitis C mother

• Sexual contact with an infected person

• Piercing or tattooing with unsterilized equipment

• Injuries with needles pr blades

• Sharing razors, or toothbrushes