World Hepatitis Day is observed on July 28th every year to raise awareness about viral hepatitis, which is a group of infectious diseases affecting the liver.

The theme for World Hepatitis Day 2021 is “Hepatitis can’t wait,” highlighting the urgent need to accelerate the efforts to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. In this article, we will discuss the risks associated with viral hepatitis and the preventive measures that can be taken to combat this disease.

What is Hepatitis?

Hepatitis refers to the inflammation of the liver caused by a viral or non-viral infection. The most common types of viral hepatitis are Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E.

Viral hepatitis is a major global health problem, with an estimated 290 million people living with chronic hepatitis B and C.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through contaminated food or water. Symptoms include fatigue, fever, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and jaundice.

Hepatitis A can be prevented through vaccination, proper sanitation practices, and good personal hygiene.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBV is transmitted through contact with blood or other body fluids of an infected person. Symptoms include jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain, and fatigue.

Hepatitis B can be prevented through vaccination and using precautions to avoid exposure to HBV.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a blood-borne viral infection that affects the liver. It is spread through contact with infected blood. Symptoms include fatigue, joint pain, stomach pain, dark urine, and jaundice.

Hepatitis C can be prevented by avoiding contact with infected blood and using precautions to avoid exposure.

Hepatitis D

Hepatitis D is caused by hepatitis D virus (HDV) and is only found in people who are already infected with HBV. It is spread through contact with infected blood. Symptoms include fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice.

Hepatitis D can be prevented by getting vaccinated against HBV.

Hepatitis E

Hepatitis E is a water-borne viral infection that is common in developing countries with poor sanitation. It is spread through contaminated water or food. Symptoms include fatigue, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice.

Hepatitis E can be prevented by practicing good personal hygiene and avoiding contaminated water and food.

Risks of Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis can lead to acute or chronic liver disease, liver failure, and liver cancer. Chronic hepatitis B and C infections are the leading cause of liver cancer, cirrhosis, and liver failure.

Hepatitis B and C are asymptomatic for many years and can lead to severe liver damage before symptoms appear, making early detection and treatment critical to prevent complications.

Prevention of Hepatitis

The most effective way to prevent viral hepatitis is through vaccination. Vaccination can prevent Hepatitis A and B infections, while there is no vaccine available for Hepatitis C and E. Other preventive measures include:.

Avoid sharing needles or other equipment used for injecting drugs
Use condoms during sexual intercourse
Practice good personal hygiene, such as hand washing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals
Avoid consuming raw or undercooked shellfish
Only drink safe, clean water
Use precautions to avoid exposure to infected blood, such as wearing gloves and using sterile equipment

Conclusion

Viral hepatitis is a serious global health problem that can lead to liver cancer, cirrhosis, and liver failure.

It is important to understand the risks associated with each type of viral hepatitis and take preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent Hepatitis A and B infections, and practicing good personal hygiene and avoiding exposure to infected blood can help prevent the spread of the disease.