How can hepatitis get contracted?

Hepatitis can be contracted in several ways, depending on the type of hepatitis. Here are the primary modes of transmission for different types of hepatitis:

1. Hepatitis A (HAV):

- HAV is primarily spread through the ingestion of contaminated food or water.

- It can also be transmitted through close contact with an infected person, such as sharing food, drinks, or utensils.

- HAV is not typically spread through blood-to-blood contact.

2. Hepatitis B (HBV):

- HBV is transmitted through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids, such as semen, vaginal fluids, or breast milk.

- It can be spread through unprotected sex, sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia, accidental needle sticks, or from mother to child during birth.

- HBV can also be transmitted through blood transfusions or organ transplants, but this risk is greatly reduced due to rigorous screening of blood and organs.

3. Hepatitis C (HCV):

- HCV is primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood.

- It is commonly spread through sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia, accidental needle sticks, or from mother to child during birth.

- HCV is less commonly transmitted through unprotected sex or blood transfusions due to improved screening practices.

4. Hepatitis D (HDV):

- HDV is a satellite virus that requires HBV to replicate.

- It is transmitted only in the presence of HBV infection and is spread through the same routes as HBV, such as contact with infected blood or bodily fluids.

5. Hepatitis E (HEV):

- HEV is usually transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water.

- It is commonly associated with outbreaks in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene.

- HEV is not typically spread through blood-to-blood contact.