Viral Hepatitis is an illness caused by the liver by various viruses. There are mainly two types of viral hepatitis namely infective (spread by contaminated food and water- Hepatitis A and E) and blood-borne (spread by contact with contaminated blood and body fluids - Hepatitis B and C). Dr Amit Gupte, Consultant Gastroenterologist, Wockhardt Hospitals elaborates more on viral hepatitis.

Hepatitis A
It is the commonest form of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. The virus is present in contaminated food and water and affects the liver on entering the body. It causes inflammation in the liver and liver injury. A patient may have tiredness, weakness, low-grade fever, body ache, joint pains and jaundice. It is usually a self-limited illness and resolves on its own over a period of time. A patient needs good supportive care and most importantly good nutrition during the recovery period. Rarely acute Hepatitis A causes complications including confusion, drowsiness and unconsciousness, which can be a dangerous situation and needs specialised care. The best way to prevent it is to have good hygienic food and clean water, preferably boiled water. Also, a vaccine is available for prevention of Hepatitis A.