Hepatitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the liver, most often due to a viral infection. There are four main types highlighted here: hepatitis A, B, C, and D, each with different ways of spreading and varying impacts on health.
Some forms of hepatitis are short-term and resolve on their own, while others can become chronic and lead to serious complications such as liver damage, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.
In the United States, hepatitis B and C are the most common chronic types. They are spread through contact with infected blood and, in some cases, from mother to child during pregnancy or birth. Hepatitis D only occurs in people who already have hepatitis B and can lead to more severe liver disease.
The good news is that prevention and treatment options are available:
Vaccines can prevent hepatitis A and B
Preventing hepatitis B also protects against hepatitis D
Hepatitis C is curable with safe, effective medications
Many people with hepatitis do not have symptoms, making testing essential. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious health outcomes and help stop the spread.
The Virginia Hepatitis Coalition works to expand access to testing, treatment, and prevention across the state—because hepatitis is preventable, treatable, and, in the case
of hepatitis C, curable.
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Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). It is usually short-term and does not lead to chronic infection.
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Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can be short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic).
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Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It can be short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic) and may lead to serious liver problems over time if left untreated.
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Hepatitis D
Hepatitis D is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV). It only occurs in people who also have hepatitis B. It can lead to more serious liver damage.