Hepatitis is an inflammatory viral infection of the liver. The most common forms include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Though caused by different viruses, as a whole, the infection produces similar symptoms that include abdominal pain, fever, general fatigue, joint pain, and jaundice. In the last two decades, the prevalence of the infections has risen between 80 and 90%. While there is not currently a vaccine for hepatitis C, there are vaccines available for hepatitis A and B.
Hepatitis A
Individuals contract hepatitis A through what is called the fecal/oral route. Researchers estimate that approximately 20,000 cases occur every year. The infection is commonly spread by consuming contaminated food or water, or through anal sexual contact. Once individuals have been infected, they develop a natural immunity and cannot acquire the disease in the future. Most recover in two weeks to six months time, and many never exhibit symptoms. In rare cases, victims may develop liver failure.
Who Requires Hepatitis A Immunization
- Chronic drug users
- International travelers
- Sexually active homosexual males
- Patients diagnosed with clotting-factor disorders, liver disease, or those awaiting liver transplantation
- Children
Vaccinations are available at healthcare and community immunization clinics and may be given to children as young as two years of age. The immunizations are administered in two separate doses spaced six to 18 months apart. Protection lasts up to 20 years. The cost varies from state to state and ranges from $60 to $300 for the series. Many health insurance plans cover the cost minus copay expenses.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is transmitted through the body fluids of infected individuals. Approximately 40,000 new cases are reported annually. Individuals commonly acquire the infection through sexual contact, injection, or puncture with an infected needle. Infected pregnant women may transmit the infection to an infant during childbirth. The disease cannot be acquired through casual contact. Symptoms may last three weeks to six months. Children may develop a chronic form of the disease.
Who Requires Hepatitis B Immunization
- Infants from birth, children to age 18
- Injection drug users
- Sexually active heterosexual or homosexual individuals
- Healthcare workers
- International travelers
- Kidney dialysis patients, individuals diagnosed with unrelated liver disease
- Institutional staff members
- Correction facility inmates
- Families with an infected member
Vaccines are available through healthcare and community immunization clinics. Protection requires three immunizations. Individuals receive the second injection at least one month after the first. Healthcare workers administer the third dose six months after the initial dose. The cost of the series runs anywhere from $75 to $165 per injection, depending on location. Many health insurance policies cover the cost minus an applicable copay.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is transmitted by coming in contact with the blood of infected individuals. Less than 30,000 cases are reported annually, However, statistics indicate that approximately 300 million people have the infection worldwide. Acute forms of the disease may produce symptoms for up to six months. Unfortunately, the infection commonly remains in the body and causes a chronic disease process that may lead to cancer, cirrhosis, or liver failure. Because the virus exhibits instability compared with the virus found in the A or B forms of the infection, researchers have not successfully created a vaccine.
