Do you know the word ‘hepatitis’ is of Greek origin? In Greek, ‘hepar’ refers to the liver and ‘itis’ means inflammation, giving the right name for the disease that affects your liver due to viruses, drugs, alcohol or other factors. There are five main types of the hepatitis virus - A, B, C, D and E. All of them affect the liver but also differ in their severity, mode of transmission and prevention methods. WHO says the B and C strains “lead to chronic disease in hundreds of millions of people and together are the most common cause of liver cirrhosis, liver cancer and viral hepatitis-related deaths. An estimated 354 million people worldwide live with hepatitis B or C, and for most, testing and treatment remain beyond reach.” What can be done to stay safe from all strains of hepatitis? Let's explore it on the World Hepatitis Day:
1) Get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B, especially if travelling to areas with high rates of hepatitis A. High-risk groups like infants, pregnant women and healthcare workers should ensure it. Hepatitis B vaccine can also prevent Hepatitis D. There is no vaccine for hepatitis C.
2) Drink clean water and eat food that's cooked well. Avoid raw or undercooked shellfish and meat, especially pork and game.
3) Ensure hygiene by washing hands thoroughly with soap and water.
4) Practice safe sex, and use condoms.
5) Make sure needles are used while treatment is sterilised. Avoid sharing needles, and practice safe injection methods.
6) Test pregnant women and moms to avoid transmission from mother to baby.
