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Neonatal Hepatitis - Frequently Asked Questions


Q: How is viral hepatitis treated?

A: Antiviral drugs which are active against HBV or HCV may be used in their treatment.

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Q: How can viral hepatitis be prevented?

A: 

  • Vaccination is the key for the prevention of HAV and HBV infection. Proper screening of blood before transfusion can prevent transmission of HBV and HCV.
  • Ensuring the sterility of all injection equipment protects against HBV and HCV transmission.
  • Adopting safe sex methodologies, which include minimizing the number of partners and using some kind of protective measures such as condoms have been shown to protect against both HBV and HCV transmission.
  • Following proper hygiene and consuming safe food and water provide the best protections against HAV and HEV infection.

Q: Can neonatal hepatitis be spread to others?

A: Infants suffering from neonatal hepatitis which is caused by the cytomegalovirus, rubella or viral hepatitis could transmit the infection to others who come in close contact with them. Pregnant women should stay away from these infected neonates because of the possibility that the woman could transmit the virus to her unborn child.

Q: Last but not the least, get vaccinated because prevention is better than cure!

A: It is a good idea to follow the recommended vaccination schedule for your children to ensure their safety and good health. The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for children when they turn one year old. Two doses are usually required: the initial dose and a booster shot six months later.

The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for all new born babies. Most get their first dose at birth; then a total of three doses are given over a six-month period.

Q: What are the different types of hepatitis viruses?

A: Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is present in the feces of infected children/adults and is often transmitted by drinking contaminated water or eating contaminated food. Thus, people living in areas of poor sanitation are generally infected by this virus. Usually, the infections are mild with full recovery. A vaccine is available for HAV.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is transmitted when a person is exposed to infected blood, semen and other bodily fluids. HBV can be transmitted from infected mothers to their baby at the time of birth or from a family member to the child in early childhood. The disease can also be contracted through transfusion of HBV-contaminated blood and blood products, or contaminated injections during medical procedures. A vaccine is available for HBV.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is generally transmitted through exposure of infected blood via transfusions of HCV-contaminated blood and blood products, contaminated injections during medical procedures and also through injection drug use. There is currently no vaccine available for HCV.

Hepatitis D virus (HDV) infections occur only in those who are infected with HBV. The combination of HDV and HBV could result in a more serious disease. Hepatitis B vaccines also provide protection from an HDV infection.

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is transmitted through consumption of contaminated water or food. HEV is a common cause of hepatitis outbreaks in developing countries of the world. HEV vaccines have been developed but are not widely available.

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