Conditions InDepth: Viral Hepatitis

Hepatitis A

It is caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). HAV is linked to poor sanitation, raw sewage, untreated water, and poor hygiene. It is passed from stool to mouth. This can happen by:

• Eating or drinking anything contaminated with HAV—such as shellfish or raw vegetables (even if they are frozen)
• Poor hand washing—especially after changing a diaper or using the bathroom
• Caring for someone who is sick
• Anal, or oral to anal sex

Hepatitis A goes away on its own. The immune system gives lifetime protection against HAV after recovery.

Hepatitis B

It is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBV is spread by contact with body fluids from someone who has or carries it. This includes blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and saliva. This can happen by:

• Having sex
• Using IV drugs or sharing needles
• Getting blood transfusions
• Giving birth—A woman with HBV can pass to the baby during childbirth
• Sharing toothbrushes, razors, nail clippers, or other personal hygiene items
• Having a job that involves contact with body fluids—such as healthcare

In most people, hepatitis B goes away on its own. It can lead to a long-term infection with more serious complications.

Hepatitis C

It is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It is spread through contact with contaminated blood. This can happen by:

• Using IV drugs or sharing needles
• Having a job that involves contact with blood—such as healthcare
• Getting blood products or an organ transplant, or through other medical treatments
• Having sex
• Giving birth—A woman with HCV can pass to the baby during childbirth

Hepatitis C goes away on its own in some people. But for most it is a long-term infection. It has more serious complications.

Hepatitis D

It is caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV). It only happens in people who have hepatitis B and is spread by:

• Using IV drugs or sharing needles
• Having a job that involves contact with blood—such as healthcare
• Having sex

Hepatitis E

It is caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV). HEV is linked to untreated drinking water. It is passed by stool to mouth contact. This can happen by:

• Drinking contaminated water—most common
• Eating or drinking anything contaminated with HEV
• Eating raw or partially cooked shellfish or meat contaminated with HEV
• Giving birth—A woman with HEV can pass to the baby during childbirth

Hepatitis E goes away on its own. Hepatitis E rare in the US. It is common in countries with a poor water supply.

Hepatitis can lead to problems such as chronic liver disease, liver cancer, or liver failure.