Hepatitis A 

(HAV)

Hepatitis B

(HBV)

Hepatitis C

(HCV)

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.

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

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.

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

Vaccine

Two doses of vaccine to anyone over the age of 2.

Three doses may be given to persons of any age.

None

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