How to prevent hepatitis? Types and ways of infection

Hepatitis is a inflammation of the liver caused by various aetiological agents. It can present asymptomatically or with varying degrees of liver failure. Currently, five main strains of hepatitis virus are recognised: A, B, C, D and E. Of these, types B and C are of particular concern, as they can cause diseases such as liver cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), In the United States, it is estimated that approximately 325 million people suffer from hepatitis B and/or C worldwide, many of whom do not have access to testing and treatment. These infections cause around 1.4 million deaths each year, representing a serious public health problem. However, a WHO study has shown that up to 4.5 million premature deaths could be prevented in low- and middle-income countries by 2030 through the implementation of vaccination, diagnosis, treatment and education strategies.

The WHO global hepatitis strategy, endorsed by all States, aims to reduce new hepatitis infections by 901 TB3T and deaths caused by hepatitis by 651 TB3T between 2016 and 2030. This requires a comprehensive approach that includes preventive measures, such as vaccination, as well as improved access to diagnostic testing and appropriate treatment.

Types of hepatitis and how they are spread

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is caused by a virus transmitted mainly by the faecal-oral route and is most common in developing countries. Personal hygiene, hand washing and drinking safe water are key measures to prevent its spread. In addition, sensitive diagnostic tests can be used to detect specifics in serum to confirm infection.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B, On the other hand, it is highly contagious and is transmitted through blood, unprotected sex and perinatal exposure. To prevent infection, it is essential to avoid contact with blood or other body fluids and to practice safe sex. Vaccination against hepatitis B is an effective strategy and is recommended for all people, especially those at higher risk of exposure.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a major cause of acute and chronic viral hepatitis, its transmission is mainly related to exposure to contaminated blood, such as blood transfusion and needle sharing. Prevention of hepatitis C involves reducing opportunities for parenteral infection, such as the use of sterile medical equipment and safe tattooing and piercing practices. Early detection and access to effective antiviral treatments are essential to reduce the burden of disease.

Hepatitis D

Hepatitis D is an infection caused by a defective virus that can only replicate in the presence of the hepatitis B virus. Prevention of Delta virus infection involves active immunisation against the hepatitis B virus, as without the presence of the hepatitis B virus, there is no risk of infection.

Hepatitis E

Hepatitis E, Hepatitis E, similar to hepatitis A, mainly affects young adults and can be especially dangerous during pregnancy. There is no specific treatment for hepatitis E, so the focus is on prevention and symptom management.

Prevention of hepatitis

Prevention requires improved access to diagnostic tests and effective treatments, as well as implementing education campaigns to raise awareness and knowledge about hepatitis. Among the main ways to protect our liver health, we highlight:

1. Vaccination: Vaccination is one of the most powerful tools to prevent viral hepatitis. Safe and effective vaccines against hepatitis A and B are available. It is recommended for everyone, especially children and those most at risk.
2. Practising safe sex: Hepatitis B and hepatitis C can be transmitted through contact with blood and body fluids, including unprotected sex. To prevent sexual transmission of these infections, condoms should always be used consistently and correctly. To find out for sure, take a full STD test.
3. Avoid contact with blood and sharp objects: Hepatitis B and C can be spread by contact with contaminated blood. It is essential to avoid sharing needles, razors, toothbrushes and other sharp objects that may be contaminated.
4. Screening and medical monitoring: Regular testing is essential, especially if you are at risk of exposure to the hepatitis virus. The testss allow early diagnosis and timely treatment, which can help prevent serious complications and reduce the spread of the disease.
5. Maintain proper hygiene: Hepatitis A is mainly transmitted through the consumption of water or food contaminated with the virus. To prevent infection, it is important to wash hands frequently and before eating or preparing food, after using the toilet and after contact with sick people.
6. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption. It can damage the liver and increase the risk of developing alcoholic hepatitis. In addition, needle sharing for injecting drug use is a major source of hepatitis C transmission. Reducing or eliminating alcohol and drug use is essential to protect liver health.

In conclusion, Hepatitis is a disease that can be prevented by taking appropriate measures. In addition, early diagnosis and regular medical check-ups are essential to detect any infection early and receive appropriate treatment. By taking these preventive measures, we can significantly reduce the risk of hepatitis and ensure a better quality of life.

Bibliographical references

1. World Health Organisation (WHO). World hepatitis day [Internet]. WHO; 2022. Available from: https://www.paho.org/es/campanas/dia-mundial-contra-hepatitis-2022
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Hepatitis A: general information [Internet]. CDC; 2023. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/hav/
3. World Health Organization (WHO). Hepatitis B [Internet]. WHO; 2023. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-b
4. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Hepatitis C and drug use [Internet]. NIDA; 2023. Available from: https://nida.nih.gov/es/areas-de-investigacion/hepatitis-viral
5. Merck Manual Professional Edition. Generalidades sobre la hepatitis viral aguda [Internet]. Merck; 2023. Disponible en: https://www.merckmanuals.com/es-us/professional/trastornos-hep%C3%A1ticos-y-biliares/hepatitis/generalidades-sobre-la-hepatitis-viral-aguda
6. National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID). Know the ABCs of hepatitis prevention [Internet]. NFID; 2023. Available from: https://es.nfid.org/know-the-abcs-of-hepatitis-prevention/
7. MedlinePlus. Hepatitis testing [Internet]. U.S. National Library of Medicine; 2023. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/pruebas-de-laboratorio/prueba-de-hepatitis/
8. Health NY Gov. Hepatitis A: fact sheet [Internet]. New York State Department of Health; 2023. Available from: https://www.health.ny.gov/es/diseases/communicable/hepatitis/hepatitis_a/fact_sheet.htm
9. Spanish Association of Vaccinology (AEV). Elimination of hepatitis B by 2030 [Internet]. AEV; 2023. Available at: https://vacunasaep.org/profesionales/noticias/hepatitis-B-eliminacion-en-2030