Thursday, July 1, 2010

Reducing the Risks of Hepatitis


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.

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