Knowing Your ABC’s of Hepatitis
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Hepatitis A |
Hepatitis B |
Hepatitis C |
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What is it? |
HAV is a virus that causes inflammation of the liver. It does not lead to chronic diseases. | HBV is a virus that causes inflammation of the liver. It can cause liver cell damage, leading to cirrhosis and cancer. | HCV is a virus that causes inflammation of the liver. This infection can lead to cirrhosis and cancer. |
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Transmission |
Person-to-person (Fecal-oral) Contaminated water/food |
Blood or body fluids Sexual contact Contaminated needles During birth |
Blood Transfusion-associated Contaminated needles During birth Sexual contact |
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Incubation Period |
15 to 50 days Average 30 days |
45 to 160 days Average 120 days |
2 to 25 weeks Average 7 to 9 wks. |
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Symptoms |
May have none. Adults may have light stools, dark urine, fatigue, fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and jaundice | May have none. Some persons have mild flu-like symptoms, dark urine, light stools, jaundice, fatigue, and fever. | Same as HBV |
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Vaccine |
Two doses of vaccine to anyone over the age of 2. | Three doses may be given to persons of any age. | None |
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Prevention |
Immune Globulin within 2 weeks of exposure. Vaccination Washing hands with soap and water after going to the toilet Safe sex (condoms) Bleach to clean household surfaces |
Immune Globulin within 2 weeks of exposure. Vaccination Safe sex Universal precautions around blood (gloves and bleach) Do not share razors, toothbrushes, and needles |
Safe sex Universal precautions around blood Do not share needles, razors, or toothbrushes with anyone |
CSUB Student Health Services 661-654-2394 ED 5/05