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Hepatitis A and B are viral infections that affect the liver. While they share a name, they spread differently and can have very different long-term effects.
Understanding how each virus is transmitted and how vaccination helps prevent infection can protect children and adults.
What is hepatitis?
The word “hepatitis” means inflammation of the liver. “The liver plays an essential role in filtering toxins, supporting digestion and regulating metabolism,” said Erica Milas, D.O., a physician with Inspira Health. “When inflamed, it cannot function properly, leading to symptoms ranging from mild illness to serious complications.”
Hepatitis A and B are caused by two different viruses, but both are preventable through vaccination.
How does hepatitis A spread?
Hepatitis A spreads through the fecal-oral route, meaning the virus is transmitted when microscopic amounts of infected stool enter the mouth. This can happen through:
- Contaminated food or water
- Close personal contact with someone who is infected
- Poor hand hygiene
Hepatitis A outbreaks have been linked to contaminated produce, food service settings and close-contact environments.
Symptoms may include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, dark urine and yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice). Some children may have mild symptoms or none at all, but can still spread the virus.
“Hepatitis A does not cause chronic liver disease, but it can lead to severe illness, especially in adults and people with underlying liver conditions,” said Dr. Milas.
How does hepatitis B spread?
Hepatitis B spreads through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. Transmission may happen through:
- Childbirth (from parent to baby)
- Unprotected sexual contact
- Sharing needles or injection equipment
- Needlestick injuries in health care settings
Unlike hepatitis A, hepatitis B can become chronic. Chronic hepatitis B infection increases the risk of liver cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer.
Some people with hepatitis B have no symptoms at first. Others may experience fever, fatigue, abdominal discomfort, joint pain or jaundice.
Who is most at risk?
Vaccines for hepatitis A and B can significantly lower infection rates in younger generations. However, risk still exists in certain situations.
Higher risk groups may include:
- International travelers to areas where hepatitis A or B is more common
- People living with someone who is infected
- Health care workers
- Individuals with multiple sexual partners
- People who use injectable drugs
- People with chronic liver disease
How does vaccination protect families and communities?
“Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent hepatitis A and hepatitis B,” said Dr. Milas. “The hepatitis B vaccine is routinely given in infancy, starting at birth, followed by additional doses during early childhood. The hepatitis A vaccine is typically given in two doses beginning at age 12 months.”
Adults who did not receive these vaccines as children can still be vaccinated. In many cases, testing for prior immunity may be recommended before vaccination.
Vaccination protects the individual and also reduces the spread within the community. When more people are immune, outbreaks are less likely to occur.
When should you talk to your doctor?
“If you are unsure whether you or your child has received the hepatitis A or hepatitis B vaccine, ask your primary care doctor to review your immunization record,” said Dr. Milas. You should also seek medical evaluation if you experience symptoms such as jaundice, persistent fatigue or abdominal pain, especially after travel or known exposure.
Hepatitis A and B are preventable viral infections that can significantly affect liver health. With routine vaccination, good hygiene practices and awareness of the risk factors, families can greatly reduce the likelihood of infection and protect long-term health.
