Paul-Ehrlich-Institut

Go to:

Information on the Use of Cookies

In order to operate and optimise our website, we would like to collect and analyse statistical information completely anonymously. Will you accept the temporary use of statistics cookies?

You can revoke your consent at any time in our privacy policy.

OK

Infographic – Viral Hepatitis – from A to E

Text version

Viral Hepatitis – from A to E

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. Infections with the hepatitis viruses A to E are often the cause of hepatitis. The viral infection can be chronic.

  • 28.7. world hepatitis day: Birthday of Dr. Blumberg, discoverer of the hepatitis B virus
    • 354 million people worldwide are living with hepatitis B or C.*
    • 20 million hepatitis E infections occur annually worldwide.*
    • 1,1 million people worldwide die of hepatitis B or C every year.*
    • 9,4 million people worldwide are treated for chronic hepatitis C virus infection.*

*source: WHO

Hepatitis A:

  • Effective vaccines are available
  • Never chronic, usually heals without serious complications
  • Specific treatment is not possible

Hepatitis B:

  • Effective vaccines are available
  • Can be severe and chronic, especially in young children and babies
  • Medicines cannot cure, but can reduce the viral load

Hepatitis C:

  • There is no vaccine
  • Usually asymptomatic, but often becomes chronic
  • Medicines are available

Hepatitis D:

  • Vaccination against hepatitis B also protects against hepatitis D
  • Requires the hepatitis B virus to multiply – in this combination leads to the most severe forms of progression
  • A medicine has been authorised since 2020

Hepatitis E:

  • There is no vaccine authorised in the EU
  • Usually cures without consequences, but severe and lethal courses are possible, especially for pregnant women
  • No specific therapy possible
  • Find out more about the vaccines authorised in Germany:
    www.pei.de/vaccines

Spread of Hepatitis Viruses:

A: Lack of food hygiene, polluted water, lack of sanitary facilities
B, C, D: Blood, sperm and other body fluids
E: In Germany mostly zoonotic, worldwide through contaminated drinking water, blood

Blood Donations

Blood donations are tested in Germany for the hepatitis viruses B and C, and since 2020 for E, in order to prevent transmission via blood products.