The ABC's of Hepatitis
To date, there have been five hepatitis viruses identified. These are hepatitis A, B, C, D & E (hepatitis D and E are rare in Australia). The viruses are all different and can be transmitted in different ways, but their effect on the liver are similar. They can all be infectious and cause inflamation of the liver, however the severity and length of the illness they cause can vary greatly.
Hepatitis |
Transmission |
Incubation Period |
Chronic Infection |
Vaccine |
|
Hep A
|
Oral-faecal
|
2 - 6 weeks
|
No
|
Yes
|
|
Hep B
|
Blood & body fluids
|
4 - 24 weeks
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
|
Hep C
|
Blood to blood contact
|
4- 20 weeks
|
Yes
|
No
|
| Hep D |
Blood & body fluids |
2 - 6 weeks |
Yes - when Hep B is also present |
Yes- Hep B vaccine provides protection |
| Hep E |
Oral-faecal |
2 - 6 weeks |
Yes |
No |