Fitima Garcia, a biological scientist for the Department of Health of Monroe County, joined Good Morning Keys on KeysTalk 96.9/102.5FM this morning to talk about communicable disease education.
There are different hepatitis viruses that are not as well known and can be quite bad.
Garcia said, “Hepatitis D, also known as HDV, is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis D virus. However, it’s unique because it only occurs in people who are already infected with hepatitis B. Without hepatitis B, hepatitis D cannot survive in the body. It spreads through contact with infected blood, such as through sharing needles or unprotected sex. It’s more common in people who already have hepatitis B.”
What are some of the symptoms?
Garcia said, “Symptoms are similar to other types of hepatitis and may include fatigue, joint pain, abdominal pain, nausea, jaundice, in some cases, it can lead to serious complications like liver failure.”
How is hepatitis D treated?
Garcia said, “There is no specific antiviral treatment for hepatitis D, but managing Hepatitis B and working closely with a liver specialist is essential.”
What about hepatitis E?
Garcia said, “It’s mainly spread through the fecal/oral route, usually by drinking water contaminated with feces from an infected person. It’s more common in parts of the world with poor sanitation. Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and jaundice. Most people recover fully, but it can be serious for pregnant women. It can exist on its own. There’s no specific treatment. Most cases are mild and get better on their own, with rest, fluids and supportive care. However, severe cases, especially in pregnant women, require close medical attention.”
Hepatitis G is another disease that could infect the blood.
Garcia said, “It’s different because it doesn’t appear to cause liver damage in most people. It is spread through blood and bodily fluids, mainly through sharing needles, transfusions or unprotected sex. Interestingly, most people with hepatitis G don’t have any symptoms. It’s often discovered during blood testing for other conditions. There’s no treatment because usually it doesn’t cause illness. Research is still ongoing to fully understand its role in human health. Prevention is the same as other blood borne infections. Avoid sharing needles, practice safe sex and ensure safe blood transfusion practices.”
For more information, click here: https://monroe.floridahealth.gov/