Hepatitis B and C are two viruses that specifically target the liver, and while there are many other Hepatitis viruses (A through E), Hep B and C are the common ones that cause long-term (chronic) infection of the liver. In other words they're the only ones that "stick around".
Hepatitis B and C are serious infections. They can markedly increase the risk of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer, which are both fatal conditions unless a person undergoes liver transplant.
Hepatitis B and C can spread through close contact with someone who has the virus. This includes sexual contact, contact with blood or certain body fluids, and from a mother to her baby during birth. For example, sharing needles or using tattoo or piercing tools that aren’t clean can spread the infection. The virus can enter the body through cuts or through the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Hepatitis B and C can only be confirmed through a simple blood test. Many people may have the infection without knowing because it often doesn’t cause obvious symptoms, especially in the early stages or even for years. This is why testing is so important — it’s the only way to know for sure. Remember, getting infected is never anyone’s fault. The good news is that testing is easy, and in most cases, treatment can fully cure these infections.
There has been significant advances in the treatment of Hep B and C.
We now have many medical treatments that are effective at suppressing Hep B and are CURATIVE for Hep C regardless of how long someone has carried this infection!
The best way to prevent Hepatitis B is through vaccination. The Hep B vaccine is highly effective (over 90%) and widely available, it’s part of routine immunizations for school-age children in most Canadian provinces. There is currently no vaccine for Hepatitis C.
To reduce the risk of both Hepatitis B and C, it’s important to take precautions. This includes using condoms during sex, using clean needles, and wearing protective barriers like gloves whenever there’s a chance of contact with someone else’s body fluids.
A primary care pathway for Hepatitis B is coming soon, so stay tuned!