Differences Between Hepatitis A, B, & C

You may have heard of different types of the Hepatitis infections.  There are actually two types of Hepatitis other than Hepatitis B: Hepatitis A and Hepatitis C.


Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV). HAV can be found in the feces of those who are infected, and the virus can be transmitted through the ingestion of these feces, even in small microscopic amounts.  Eating food and drinking liquids that are infected with the virus is also a means of transmission.  Individuals at risk for Hepatitis A include those who travel to places with high rates of Hepatitis A, sexual contact with infected individuals, men who have sexual intercourse with men, users of drugs through injection into the skin, and individuals with blood clotting disorders. HAV infections almost always go away on its own. Hepatitis A shares the same symptoms as Hepatitis B (including loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting).  There is no treatment for Hepatitis A, other than a vaccination for prevention or supportive treatment for those who are infected already.  Vaccinations are recommended for all children who turn 1 years old, adolescents who live in environments where Hepatitis vaccination programs are already implemented, individuals who are at higher risk,  and possibly those who are traveling to Hepatitis-prone countries.  The Hepatitis A vaccinations are the best prevention!


Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is caused by the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). HCV is found in blood and some specific bodily fluids, and is transmitted when these fluids from an infected person enters the body of an individual who is not immune to the virus.  It is possible to contract the Hepatitis C virus from sexual intercourse but it is uncommon.  Individuals at risk for Hepatitis C include those who inject drugs, are hemodialysis patients, and were born to HCV-infected mothers.  Hepatitis C shares the same symptoms as Hepatitis A & Hepatitis B, which includes diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue.  There is currently no treatment for those who recently contracted the HCV, but there are drugs for those who have chronic HCV infection.  Additionally, there is no vaccine to prevent Hepatitis C, but by getting both the Hepatitis A and Hepatitis C vaccinations, your chances of acquiring Hepatitis C might be lower.


What are the some differences between all of these Hepatitis's ?


Hepatitis A - acute infection found in food and water; spread from an infected person to another person, and usually gets better on its own; preventable with vaccination. 


Hepatitis B - acute or chronic infection; spread through bodily fluids like blood, preventable with vaccination.


Hepatitis C - chronic; spread through blood only, no preventable ways/no vaccination.