Vaccines are only available for hepatitis A and B viruses and complete cure is not achieved even with best treatment in many cases. Therefore, focus should be on prevention. The following steps can reduce the spread of hepatitis.
- Every new born child should be vaccinated against HBV.
- Avoid the use of contaminated water ,unwashed and unpeeled fruits and vegetable etc, as they can be a source of HAV and HEV
- Practice good personal hygienic measure e.g. washing of hands thoroughly before eating and after toilet use.
- Blood and blood products must always be adequately screened before transfusion.
- DO NOT share needles, syringes and shaving accessories.
- Keep all utensils covered and clean to avoid contaminated by files.
- All food industry workers must be monitored on regular basis for Hepatitis A and E.
- Practice safe sex
- Women who are infected with hepatitis B or C must undertake adequate contraceptive measures.
- Early recognition and treatment to prevent long-term complications of hepatitis and reduce deaths due to this disease.
- Public enlightenment programs must be put in place to educate general public about clinical features, mode of spread, prevention and treatment of different types of hepatitis.
