What is a viral hepatitis? What are the symptoms of viral hepatitis? How is viral hepatitis transmitted? Who is at risk of a fatal hepatitis infection? What about hepatitis B and pregnancy What about hepatitis B and the newborn? How does HIV/AIDS infection interact with hepatitis B and hepatitis C? How is hepatitis diagnosed? Is there a treatment for viral hepatitis? Is a special diet required? How can I prevent the transmission of my viral hepatitis? How can I prevent contracting viral hepatitis? Who is eligible for free vaccination against hepatitis B (HBV)? Who should consider hepatitis A vaccination? Links and References

With respect to hepatitis A and E, it is important to rigorously wash one’s hands after bowel movements and before manipulating foodstuffs, drinks or ice-cubes destined for someone else.

If you have hepatitis B (HBV), C (HCV) and/or D:

• Use condoms during sexual relations (oral, vaginal and anal penetration);
• Avoid sharing syringes and/or other drug-related paraphernalia (injection drug equipment);
• Avoid the sharing of your toothbrush, razor, nail-trimmer or file and/or all personal articles that may carry traces of blood;
• Ensure to cover adequately all wounds or open sores with a dressing or bandage;
• Ensure the thorough cleaning of all surfaces that may have been contaminated by your blood (use 1 part ammonia/bleach to 9 parts water);
• Do not donate your blood, organs or sperm for artificial insemination;
• If you are pregnant, your newborn child can be protected by the administration of immunoglobulins within 24 hours of birth (ready-to-protect antibodies against hepatitis) and by the timely use of a hepatitis B vaccination (there is no currently available vaccine against hepatitis C).