Hepatitis is one dreaded infection. People across the globe are fearful of this viral disease which affects the liver. Three hundred fifty-four million people live with a hepatitis B or C infection, causing 1.34 million deaths annually. A lack of knowledge about Hepatitis, its causes, prevention and treatment has changed how people perceive it. To spread awareness about this disease and its vaccination, every year on 28th July, World's Hepatitis Day is observed across the globe.
If you seek more information regarding the symptoms, diagnosis, or treatment of Hepatitis, connect with Manipal Hospitals. Our experienced doctors at the hepatology department can address your concerns related to liver diseases. Visit our Hepatitis Vaccination Hospital in Kharadi, Pune to know more about the treatment options.
ABCs of Hepatitis Infection
The word 'hepatitis' means inflammation of the liver. The liver works to process nutrients, fight infections and filter the blood. These functions get disrupted when the liver gets inflamed.
Hepatitis spreads via viral or bacterial infection due to close contact with an infected person. Physical injury, adverse drug interactions, heavy alcohol use and toxins can be some agents.
Amongst these, viral infection is the most severe cause of acute liver infection.
Types of Hepatitis
Five viruses cause Hepatitis- Hepatitis A, B, C, D and E. All these results in an infection, but only Hepatitis B and C cause a chronic disease that leads to the development of scars and permanent damage to the liver known as cirrhosis and cancer in the body.
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Hepatitis A (HAV)
This infection gets transmitted via contaminated food and water. Maintaining proper hygiene and sanitation can help prevent this disease. HAV doesn't cause any chronic problems. Hepatitis A vaccine is available for infants, children and adults.
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Hepatitis B (HBV)
Hepatitis B is a chronic infection transmitted from an infected person through contact with infected blood, unprotected intercourse or from an infected mother to a newborn. It is a chronic disease and is the leading cause of liver cancer. The Hepatitis B vaccine is available for infants, children and adults. This infection is incurable, and one must take preventive precautions and get a hep b vaccine.
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Hepatitis C (HCV)
This infection gets transmitted through contaminated needles, unprotected intercourse and infected blood. While there is no vaccination available, a drug cure is available. Hepatitis C is the leading cause of liver transplantation. Consult with a Gastroenterologist in Kharadi, Pune today to have better clarity on these viruses.
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Hepatitis Delta (HDV)
This infection is transmitted as Hepatitis B and C and occurs as a co-infection with HBV. HBV has deadly repercussions and results in rapid liver damage. Hep B vaccine works to prevent HDV.
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Hepatitis E (HEV)
This viral infection is not chronic and transmits through contaminated food, water and blood. At present, no drug treatment is available for HEV.
Prevention and Treatment
Little knowledge is dangerous. Most people wilfully ignore this disease and its consequences. Not getting tested on time or avoiding the early symptoms are some of the reasons why Hepatitis goes out of hand. Manipal Hospitals, Kharadi, is taking the initiative to spread the awareness about the importance of vaccination to prevent Hepatitis. As an informed person, one must know the following preventive measures.
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Avoid direct contact with blood and other bodily fluids; wear gloves.
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In case of exposure, one must wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water.
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Indulge in protected sex only.
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Avoid sharing nail clippers, razors, toothbrushes, and earrings with others.
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Discard sanitary napkins appropriately.
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Always ensure sterile needles during blood tests, acupuncture, and getting a piercing or tattoo.
Hepatitis is a preventable disease. It is not transmissible through the air (coughing, sneezing, sharing food or hugging) as it spreads via direct contact with the infected blood. Most often, Hepatitis patients are secluded in society because of misconceptions about the disease. Education and awareness are the only means of proper management and preventive care against the disease. With proper awareness and education, we can support the ones suffering from Hepatitis.
Hepatitis Vaccination
You can protect yourself and your family from this infection for a lifetime by getting the vaccination. Hepatitis B vaccination is a safe and effective shield against infection. The World Health Organisation recommends Hepatitis vaccination for infants at birth, children up to 18 years and adults more prone to risk like healthcare workers, persons with HIV infection, renal infection, liver infection etc. Book your vaccination at Manipal Hospitals today, or call us for any information.
Hepatitis Day
Hepatitis day is observed on 28th July every year to spread awareness about this disease globally. The medical fraternity aims to spread awareness about Hepatitis vaccination and preventive measures. Manipal Hospitals, Kharadi is constantly reaching out to people to educate them about the importance of Hepatitis vaccination. One can get the vaccination shots for infants less than 12 months, children and adults.
Prevention is better than cure. This proverb sits perfectly regarding Hepatitis hence one must get the shots on time to keep the infection of Hepatitis away.
Department of Gastrointestinal Sciences
