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Hepatitis is the name for several different illnesses which all cause an inflammation of the liver. Viral hepatitis is the term used when the hepatitis is caused by a virus. There are three major strains of virus which cause hepatitis: A, B and C. There are important differences between these strains, especially in relation to how they are transmitted and the best ways to protect yourself from exposure. Drinking alcohol or taking drugs (whether legal, illegal or prescription) can cause a form of hepatitis.
Hepatitis A, also known as infectious hepatitis, is an acute viral infection of the liver. The seriousness of the disease varies, but is usually more serious in adults than in children. There is a safe and effective vaccine available for protection against hepatitis A infection.
Hepatitis B can be transmitted by blood to blood contact, sexual contact or from mother to child during pregnancy and birth (in many countries in the world, mother to child transmission is the most common). There is a reliable and safe vaccine available to protect against hepatitis B (recommended for babies, Year 8 students and at-risk groups).
Hepatitis C is one of the most serious types of hepatitis, and is transmitted by blood to blood contact. Currently in Australia, hepatitis C is most often transmitted through blood to blood contact caused by sharing or re-using injection equipment. However, hepatitis C can be transmitted in other ways such as via blood transfusion and blood products. In Australia, all donated blood and blood products are tested. Unsterile tattooing and body piercing practices can also pass on the virus. Mother to child transmission during pregnancy or birth is low risk. Transmission has also occurred in health care settings through unsterile medical injections and other medical procedures in overseas countries. The risk of sexual transmission of hepatitis C is considered low, although infection through high risk activities such as unprotected anal intercourse has been reported. No vaccine is currently available, however there is treatment available. The effectiveness of the treatment depends on a number of factors including the type of virus and other lifestyle factors.
Hepatitis Queensland is a state-wide community based organisation that offers education, training, peer support, counselling and resources for people living with or affected by viral hepatitis.
Visit their website here or phone 1800 648 491.
The Queensland Positive Speakers Bureau provides a unique and powerful resource for educators and audiences across all sectors, in raising awareness to prevent the future spread of HIV and/or viral hepatitis. This service is provided by speakers who are living with HIV and/or viral hepatitis, who each have sensitive and incredible stories to tell. Visit their website here.
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