What is viral hepatitis? 

Hepatitis is the inflammation of liver parenchyma, causing liver function to decline. There are many causes of hepatitis, half of which are caused by viruses.

Mainly common: hepatitis A virus (HAV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV)

• Acute viral hepatitis: the existence of hepatitis virus in the patient's body within 6 months of exposure.
• Chronic viral hepatitis: disease caused by hepatitis virus infection lasting more than 6 months.

Serious complications of viral hepatitis are cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma

How are hepatitis B and C virus transmitted?

Hepatitis B and C viruses are transmitted through:

• Blood (sharing needles, through open wounds...)
• Sexual route.
• The path from mother to child.

What are the symptoms of viral hepatitis?

Most patients may be completely asymptomatic

The acute stage may have symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, mild fever, headache, nausea, right upper quadrant pain, loss of appetite, increasing jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, etc...

Stage of cirrhosis with symptoms such as spider telangiectasia, jaundice, edema, ecchymoses on the skin... or portal hypertension (collateral circulation, spleen enlargement, ascites, esophageal varices ...)

The stage of liver cancer caused by HBV may not go beyond the stage of cirrhosis.

How to treat hepatitis B and C?

• There are currently specific medications to treat hepatitis B and C to prevent severe liver damage
• Treatment requires long-term compliance
• Do not arbitrarily quit or change medication, because it may cause hepatitis to flare up and cause more severe liver damage.

Screening for hepatitis B and C?

Testing is the only way to know if you have viral hepatitis or not

People who know they have viral hepatitis can protect the health of their family members

Hepatitis C:

• Routine screening is required at least once for all individuals over 18 years old.
• Screening is required for people under 18 years old and with high-risk factors: drug use, male homosexual sex, HIV infection, history of hemodialysis, exposure to medical staff, etc...
• Screening with blood tests such as HBsAg, Anti HBs, Anti HCV, HCV RNA...

 Prevention of viral hepatitis?

• Currently, there is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C, so screening to detect viral infection early is very important to increase the chance of treatment
• Do not share needles or other equipment that may have come into contact with blood or secretions
• Wear gloves if you must touch blood or open wounds
• Do not share personal items such as toothbrushes, razors, or nail clippers
• Have safe sex
• Choose places that perform safe tattooing, piercing, and medical services.