Hepatitis is divided into two main groups: viral hepatitis and non-viral hepatitis. Viral hepatitis is caused by hepatitis viruses, mainly hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Each type spreads differently, so prevention depends on knowing the source of infection.
How viral hepatitis may spread:
Hepatitis A usually spreads through contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person
Hepatitis B spreads through infected blood, semen, and other body fluids, including during sex, shared needles, or from mother to baby during childbirth
Hepatitis C spreads mainly through infected blood, such as shared needles or non-sterile medical, tattoo, piercing, or cosmetic equipment
Hepatitis D spreads through infected blood and body fluids, but only affects people who already have hepatitis B or are infected with hepatitis B at the same time
Hepatitis E usually spreads through contaminated water or undercooked food, especially in areas with poor sanitation
Non-viral hepatitis is not caused by hepatitis viruses and does not spread in the same way. It may develop when the liver is irritated or damaged by lifestyle factors, medical conditions, or harmful substances.
Common non-viral causes may include:
Alcohol-related liver inflammation
Fatty liver disease
Certain medicines or supplements
Exposure to toxins
Autoimmune hepatitis, when the immune system attacks the liver
To help prevent viral hepatitis:
Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and hepatitis B if recommended
Wash your hands carefully, especially before eating or preparing food
Drink safe water and choose clean, reliable food sources
Be cautious with raw or undercooked foods, especially when traveling
Practice safer sex
Avoid sharing needles or injection equipment
Do not share razors, toothbrushes, or nail tools
Make sure medical, dental, tattoo, piercing, and cosmetic procedures use sterile equipment
Consider hepatitis screening if you may have been exposed to infected blood or body fluids
To help prevent non-viral hepatitis and support liver health:
Maintain a healthy weight
Limit alcohol exposure
Avoid unnecessary medication or supplement use
Follow medical advice when taking long-term medicines
Reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins
Have regular health checkups if you have liver disease risk factors or abnormal liver test results
At Bumrungrad International Hospital in Bangkok, the Digestive Disease (GI) Center provide screening, liver health evaluation, and personalized prevention guidance for adults, travelers, and patients with liver health concerns.
Provided by the Digestive Disease (GI)Centerat Bumrungrad International Hospital.
