“Hepatitis can be a serious symptom of another illness. Dangerous complications mainly occur with type C – cirrhosis and liver cancer. In these cases, following a long-term, sometimes lifelong, diet is often necessary. If you or your children notice symptoms resembling hepatitis, it is always crucial to inform a doctor immediately,” warns MUDr. Petra Bomberová Kánská, Chief physician of General medicine and Distance care Care at Canadian Medical.

Types of viral hepatitis

• Hepatitis A (“the disease of dirty hands”) – transmitted through contaminated water and food, mostly due to poor hygiene. It does not become chronic, and symptoms usually resolve on their own.
• Hepatitis B – spread by blood, sexual contact, and from mother to child. It can become chronic and increase the risk of cirrhosis or liver cancer.
• Hepatitis C – transmitted by blood (e.g., non-sterile instruments). Often asymptomatic, but up to 90% of cases become chronic.
• Hepatitis D – occurs only in people with hepatitis B and tends to have a more severe course.
• Hepatitis E – spreads similarly to type A and can be dangerous for pregnant women.

Where infection risk occurs

Infection with hepatitis A and other forms of hepatitis mainly occurs when traveling to countries with poor hygiene standards. It is also risky to consume food that has not been properly washed or to drink contaminated water, which may be polluted with fecal matter. Infection can also happen through contact with infected blood, such as sharing needles or other sharp instruments. Additionally, protecting oneself during sexual activity is important, as some hepatitis types, especially B and C, are transmitted sexually.

Symptoms

The main symptoms include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, fever, dark urine, pale stools, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. However, some types may progress without noticeable symptoms.

Prevention and Vaccination

The most effective protection against hepatitis A and B is vaccination.

• The hepatitis A vaccine is available for both children and adults.
• In the Czech Republic, vaccination against hepatitis B is mandatory for children.

Thorough hand washing, drinking safe water, practicing safe sex, avoiding contact with foreign blood, and using sterile instruments are all important preventive measures.

Recently, a sharp increase in hepatitis A cases has led to temporary shortages of the vaccine, which makes it especially important to follow all recommended hygiene precautions.

Treatment

Hepatitis A usually resolves on its own; treatment is supportive (rest, diet). Antiviral medications are used for hepatitis B and C, but in severe cases, permanent liver damage can occur.