National Day to Combat Viral Hepatitis, May 15, 2018
Every year, on National Viral Hepatitis Awareness Day, Santé publique France makes available all epidemiological data on viral hepatitis and publishes a summary of epidemiological data on hepatitis B and C.
Hepatitis B and C are liver infections caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and the hepatitis C virus (HCV). They represent a major public health concern due to their potential severity and can progress to cirrhosis and/or liver cancer.
Documents published on the occasion of World Hepatitis Day, May 15, 2018
Summary of surveillance data on screening and diagnosis of hepatitis B and C
Updated epidemiological data on hepatitis B and hepatitis C
Background on the disease
Hepatitis refers to diseases of the liver. They are most often caused by a viral infection or have a toxic origin (alcohol and certain medications). Viral hepatitis is classified from A to E based on the family of the virus involved. Their main common feature is their ability to infect liver cells and replicate within them. In response to this infection, the host’s immune system reacts, leading to the destruction of infected cells and inflammation (hepatitis). Symptoms of hepatitis include yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), dark urine, extreme fatigue, nausea or vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Vaccination is the most effective means of preventing hepatitis B.
Since late 2013, highly effective new treatments for hepatitis C have been available.
