Yellow July: understanding the differences between viral hepatitis

Find out more about the awareness campaign that aims to fight viral hepatitis and promote liver health

According to government data, about 1 million people in Brazil are living with viral hepatitis without knowing it. This type of disease may show no symptoms during a period of infection, which makes it go unnoticed by many people.

Hepatitis types B and C are responsible for about 74% of viral hepatitis cases in the country. But it is the C responsible for 76% of deaths, according to data from the Brazilian Liver Institute (Ibrafig).

The Yellow July Campaign

To highlight the importance of early testing and treatment of the disease, a federal law in 2019 created the nationwide “Yellow July” campaign.

The campaign serves to raise public awareness of the risks and dangers of viral hepatitis. In the month of July, more precisely on the 28th, World Day for the fight against viral hepatitis is celebrated, a date established by the World Health Organization (WHO).

We explain more about this health condition below.

What is Viral Hepatitis?

Viral hepatitis is an inflammatory liver disease caused by infection, drug use, alcohol and other drugs, autoimmune, metabolic or genetic diseases. Each type of viral hepatitis has specific characteristics in terms of transmission, severity, treatment and prevention.

Hepatitis A

It is mainly transmitted through contaminated water and food or through direct contact with an infected person.

Hepatitis B

This type of hepatitis, on the other hand, can be transmitted through contact with blood, infected body fluids (such as semen and vaginal secretions), unprotected sex, sharing materials, use of injectable, inhaled and piped drugs, and use of non- sterile materials (nail nippers, shaving and hair removal equipment, tattoo and piercing instruments, surgical or dental material).

Hepatitis C

Transmitted primarily through contact with contaminated blood, such as sharing syringes or injecting drug equipment. The disease can cause cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Hepatitis D

This virus can only infect people who already have hepatitis B. Infection occurs through contact with infected blood or body fluids.

Hepatitis E

Transmitted mainly through ingestion of contaminated water or food. Most infections are acute and resolve on their own, but can cause complications in pregnant women.

Prevention

Hepatitis A and E

To prevent this type of disease, pay attention to basic sanitation in your region; avoid contact with contaminated water and clean food before consumption. There is a vaccine for hepatitis A.

Hepatitis B, C and D

Prevention includes proper use of condoms and not sharing sharp tools and personal hygiene items. The hepatitis B vaccine also protects against hepatitis D.

Early diagnosis and treatment are the main means of cure. Talk to your doctor or find the nearest Basic Health Unit and take the quick test.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.