Overview
Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver. Viruses usually cause it—but toxins, parasites or drug or alcohol abuse can also lead to hepatitis. In Washington, hepatitis A, B and C viruses are the most common causes.
People experiencing homeless are at greater risk for hepatitis viral hepatitis. Learn more.
Most cleaning products don’t kill hepatitis A. View this flier for more information.
Acute
- Hepatitis A, B or C.
- Infection acquired within the last 12 months.
- May experience vomiting, abdominal pain or yellowing eyes or skin.
- Most people with acute hepatitis A will show symptoms; most people with acute hepatitis B or C will not.
- Most people with acute hepatitis A will recover and are immune to hepatitis A. About 5% of adults with acute hepatitis B will develop chronic infection. About 70% of people with acute hepatitis C will develop chronic infection.
Chronic
- Hepatitis B or C.
- Virus remains in the body, slowly damaging the liver.
- Liver damage can lead to scarring (cirrhosis) or liver cancer.
- Treatment is available. Antiviral treatment can control hepatitis B and can cure hepatitis C.
Additional Information
- Hepatitis Testing & Vaccination.
- Perinatal Hepatitis.
- Caring for Infants Born to Hepatitis B-Infected Mothers.
- Additional Hepatitis Resources.
Report certain cases of viral hepatitis.
- Within 24 hours—acute hepatitis A, B or E.
- Within 3 days—hepatitis C (acute), hepatitis D (acute or chronic) and pregnant women who test positive for hepatitis B surface antigen.
- Monthly—newly diagnosed chronic hepatitis B or C.
Call the reporting line: 360-778-6150 or fax positive lab results and demographic information to the confidential fax 360-778-6103 or use the Reportable Disease Fax Form .
You can prevent transmission.
Safe injection practices benefit providers and patients. Find out more at CDC’s Injection Safety page and One and Only.