Hepatitis
B
C
This disease is getting very common now a days. This is inflammation of liver caused by a Virus, HBV (Hepatitis B Virus) or HCV (Hepatitis C Virus). Though other forms of Hepatitis are also common but these two are discussed here due to high incidence & increased morbidity & mortality rates in Pakistan.
How one can get Infected?
Both of these viruses spread by almost similar routes:
Transfusion of Infected Blood/blood products
Contaminated needles used by Quacks. Also this a common tradition of ear piercing in Pakistan & India. Needles/instruments used for this purpose are not sterilized most of the time. this can also cause transmission of this Virus.
Sexual Intercourse with infected person.
From infected mother to child at the time of delivery.
Addicts who share the needles.
May also spread by un sterilized instruments used by Barbers & Beauty saloons.
Is there any prevention ?
For Hepatitis B- YES. One can get vaccinated under supervision of his/her doctor. I recommend mass vaccination of all Pakistanis (under supervision of their doctors & after appropriate lab investigations). No vaccine yet available for prevention of Hepatitis C.
How one would know if he/she is infected ?
Common early symptoms include:
Easy Fatigability
Loss of appetite
Nausea, vomiting
Mild fever
Mild constant pain below right ribs.
Yellowness of eyes
The above symptoms may not necessarily present in all cases. Appropriate lab investigations are necessary to diagnose or exclude Hepatitis.
If you have been in contact with any patient having Hepatitis or if experiencing above symptoms, do contact your doctor for proper lab investigations.
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