28/07/2025
🗓️ World Hepatitis Day | July 28
Today, we join the world to raise awareness about viral hepatitis.
What is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that is caused by a variety of infectious viruses and non-infectious agents leading to a range of health problems, including severe liver damage and cancer, some of which can be fatal.
There are 5 main strains of the hepatitis virus, referred to as types A, B, C, D and E.
Hepatitis A is the result of an infection with the hepatitis A virus (HAV). This type of hepatitis is an acute, short-term disease.
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that can cause inflammation of the liver, potentially leading to long-term damage. It's transmitted through contact with infected blood or body fluids. While some people experience flu-like symptoms or jaundice, others may not have any noticeable symptoms, especially in the early stages.
Hepatitis C is a liver infection. It can range from a mild, short-term illness to a serious, chronic, lifelong infection. While many people with hepatitis C don't experience symptoms, the infection can lead to serious liver damage, including cirrhosis and liver cancer, if left untreated. Fortunately, most people with hepatitis C can be cured with modern antiviral medications.
Hepatitis D is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV). Only people with hepatitis B can contract HDV.
Hepatitis E is a liver infection. Most people with hepatitis E fully recover and have no long-term liver problems from their infection. Hepatitis E is common in many parts of the world where sanitation is poor.
The symptoms of hepatitis include:
Pain or bloating in the belly area.
Dark urine and pale or clay-colored stools.
Fatigue.
Low grade fever.
Itching.
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
Loss of appetite.
Nausea and vomiting.
