Viral hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver.
The five hepatitis viruses are: type A, B, C, D and E.  Most common types are B and C.  These two are the leading cause of liver cirrhosis and cancer.

 

How do I get hepatitis?  Either infected bodily fluids or contaminated food and water depending on the type of hepatitis. 

Types B, C and D: contracted through the blood of an infected persons (unsafe injections or unscreened blood transfusions; B and C, through unprotected sex.

 

Type D only infects persons who are already infected with type B.

Types A and E are typically transmitted via contaminated water or food, poor sanitation and poor personal hygiene (unwashed hands).

Effective vaccines are available for all the virus types, except C.

 

For more information call: 542-3553, 542-2078

Section General Public Health (SGPH)/Collective Prevention Services (CPS)
Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour