Hepatitis can be caused by viral infections, parasites, bacteria, chemicals, auto-immunity, drugs or alcohol. Of these, viral infection is the most common cause of chronic (long-term) hepatitis.
Chronic hepatitis can cause cirrhosis of the liver.
Hepatitis A and B can be immunised against.
Hepatitis C affects more than 180 million people worldwide and can lead to cirrhosis of the liver.
Symptoms of hepatitis C include muscle and joint aches, fever, nausea or vomiting, diarrhoea and headache.
Hepatitis C can be transmitted through contact with blood (including through sexual contact where the two parties’ blood is mixed) and can also cross the placenta.
For more information about hepatitis visit: http://www.hepatitisday.info
