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Hepatitis is a serious illness as evidenced from a variety of symptoms. The statistics also show the prevalence of hepatitis world wide.

Here are some ways to prevent Hepatitis B (World Health Organization, WebMD, Hepatitis Foundation International, Journal of the American Medical Association)

Vaccination:

The Hepatitis B vaccine is endorsed by medical, scientific and public health communities for its outstanding record of safety and effectiveness. It provides protection against Hepatitis B for at least 15 years. Since 1982, over one billion doses of hepatitis B vaccine have been used. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that newborns and individuals up to 18 years of age and adult participating at risk of infection should be vaccinated. The vaccine is given as a series of three intramuscular doses over a 6-12 month period.

Protection:

• Do not share needles

• Do not share toothbrushes or razors

• Wear latex or plastic gloves when touching blood

• Practice safe sex (use a condom)

Ways to prevent Hepatitis C ( World Health Organization, Hepatitis Foundation International , Centers for Disease Control, Mayo Clinic)

There are unfortunately no vaccines for Hepatitis C. Although vaccines for Hepatitis A and B do not work against Hepatitis C, it is still recommended to receive the Hepatitis A and B vaccinations.

Precautions for Infection:

• Screening and testing of blood

• Risk reduction counseling for persons with high-risk drug and sexual practices

• Avoid illegal drug use (sharing of needles and other drug paraphernalia

• Avoid body piercing and tattooing unless absolutely certain that the equipment is sterile

• Don’t share products with blood on them

• Avoid risky sexual behavior

For more information:

• Medline Plus

  Medical encyclopedia including causes, symptoms and treatments for Hepatitis

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Hepatitis Branch

  Contact: 1-888-4-HEP-CDC

• American Liver Foundation

  Contact: 1-888-4-HEP-ABC

• The Hepatitis B Coalition

  Contact: 651-647-9009