The Acheson Group
Disease Fact Sheets
Hepatitis Fact Sheet
What is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, commonly caused by a virus, but it may also be linked to certain drugs, toxins, or alcohol. Viral infections are known as Hepatitis (Hep) A, B, C, D, and E, with each caused by a different virus.
Hep A had been linked most often with food or water contaminated with feces from an infected person. It is now thought to be more efficiently transmitted person to person.
Hep B, C & D are chronic diseases typically linked to contact with infectious bodily fluids (e.g., blood) and can occur via shared needles or sexual contact.
Hep E is primarily waterborne and not common in the US.
Why Should I Care about Hepatitis?
- Estimated new US infections (2018) 24,900 Hep A; 21,600 Hep B; 50,300 Hep C
- Estimated US chronic infections/2020 850,000 Hep B; 2.4 million Hep C
- Hepatitis is the second leading infectious cause of death globally, with 1.3 million deaths per year
- If eaten raw, filter-feeding shellfish (e.g., oysters) raised in sewage-contaminated water can cause hepatitis.
- Although those who are infected with Hep A usually recover, Hep B, C, and D infections can progress to serious health problems including liver cirrhosis, cancer, and death.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF HEPATITIS
What Do I Do About Hepatitis?
- Exclude infected food handlers from handling food.
- Ensure food handlers wash hands properly before meal preparation, particularly after toileting.
- Ensure proper sanitation and access to safe water.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in public restrooms; using a product with a Hep A claim may be beneficial.
- If a bodily fluid incident occurs, respond quickly to contain it, disinfect the spill and appropriate surrounding areas, and exclude anyone from the area.
- Antiviral drugs & immunoglobulins may be given after exposure, as advised by medical professionals.
- Consider vaccination, where possible, as a preventive approach. Vaccines are available against Hep A and B; the Hep B vaccine also protects against Hep D.
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