Commemorated annually on May 19, Hepatitis Testing Day raises awareness about viral hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver with serious health implications, including liver cancer. Hepatitis viruses A, B, C, D, and E are the most prevalent strains. It can be acute or chronic and caused by these viruses, as well as other infections, alcohol, toxins, medications, and autoimmune disease.
Hepatitis A and E result from consuming contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B spreads through infected blood, bodily fluids, or from mother to baby during birth, through sex, or by sharing needles. Hepatitis C, a blood-borne virus, commonly transmits through needle sharing. Hepatitis D is contracted through contact with infected blood and only affects individuals with Hepatitis B.
Preventing hepatitis primarily involves practicing good hygiene. Together, let’s raise awareness, get tested, and prioritize proper hygiene to combat the spread of this disease.
To learn more about ways to prevent hepatitis and why to choose Cooper for hepatitis care, click here.
Cooper’s hepatitis experts:
Christopher Deitch, MD
Jennifer Flannery, APP, PA