Hepatitis
What is hepatitis?
"Hepatitis" means inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis can be
caused by any of several viruses (types A, B, C, D, E, F, G),
but can also be caused by some bacteria and parasites,
alcohol, medications, and other chemicals. Hepatitis caused by
viruses can be transmitted to others only in very specific
ways. Hepatitis caused by alcohol, medications and chemicals
cannot be passed to other persons.
For additional information on hepatitis A, B, and C:
How is viral hepatitis transmitted?
Hepatitis A and E are transmitted when fecal
material from an infected person is accidentally ingested by
another person, through food, water, or contaminated hands or
objects.
Hepatitis B and C viruses are in the blood of
infected persons. These infections can be transmitted when the
blood enters another person through a fresh cut, wound,
puncture, or mucous membrane. Hepatitis B can also be sexually
transmitted. Hepatitis D (Delta virus) can only be passed
along with the Hepatitis B virus.
For more information:
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Hepatitis Links
Hepatitis A Fact Sheets
Hepatitis B Fact Sheets
Hepatitis C Fact Sheets
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