Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, commonly caused by a viral infection, but also possibly resulting from toxic substances (e.g., alcohol, certain drugs), and autoimmune diseases where the body attacks liver cells. The condition can vary in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a serious, lifelong illness. There are several types of viral hepatitis, categorized mainly by the hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E viruses. At VPharmacy, we provide for Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B.

• Hepatitis A: Typically transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food or water.
• Hepatitis B: Transmitted through infectious bodily fluids, often from mother to child at birth, through unprotected sex, or needle sharing.
• Hepatitis C: Mainly spread through blood-to-blood contact such as sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs.
• Hepatitis D: A serious form of hepatitis that only occurs in conjunction with hepatitis B infection.
• Hepatitis E: A waterborne disease largely found in areas with poor sanitation and typically results from ingesting fecal matter that contaminates water supplies.

HEPATITIS A

Hepatitis A vaccine protects against the Hepatitis A virus (HAV), which causes liver disease and is typically transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food or water. The vaccine is highly effective and recommended for all children at age 1, travelers to areas where hepatitis A is common, men who have sex with men, people with chronic liver disease, people who use drugs, and people with occupational risks.

HEPATITIS B

Hepatitis B vaccine protects against the Hepatitis B virus (HBV), which is transmitted through blood, semen, or another body fluid from an infected person. This vaccine is recommended for all infants, typically starting with the first dose given at birth, and is also recommended for unvaccinated children, healthcare and public safety workers, dialysis patients, people with STDs, and people with multiple sex partners, among others.

VACCINE TYPES

• Single-antigen vaccine: Usually given as a three-dose series at 0, 1, and 6 months. Some brands now offer a two-dose series for adults, given over one month.
• Combination vaccine: Protects against hepatitis A and B. This may be a convenient option for those needing protection against both diseases.

VPharmacy plays a key role in the administration and promotion of Hepatitis A and B vaccines for our community. By providing convenient access to these vaccinations, along with reliable information and supportive care, VPharmacy helps to enhance public health efforts to prevent these viral infections.