You must have thrown the word hepatitis in health conversations, but what does it really mean – and how dangerous it is? “Hepatitis refers to the inflammation of the liver, and in most cases, it is caused by a viral infection,” Dr. Dr. Vishal Khurana says. “There are five main types of hepatitis viruses – A, B, C, D, and E – and each one behaves differently in terms of transmission, severity and which is at risk.”

The liver plays an important role in processing nutrients, filtering toxins and fighting infections. When it becomes inflamed, these necessary tasks are compromised. While certain types of hepatitis only cause short -term disease, others can cause chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer.

So, how do you get it? Sometimes, it is innocent as enjoying a plate of street food. The second time, it can occur through something as intimate as a razor sharing.

Hepatitis A and E: Beware of what you eat and drink

“Both Hepatitis A and E are usually transmitted through the feces,” Dr. Khurana says. “This means that they enter the body through contaminated food or water.”

These infections are more common in developing countries where sanitation and hygiene are poor. “The virus may be present even if food and taste looks fine,” he warns. Foods such as cold cuts, salads, shellfish, or even milk-based beverages and unformed juices can be all criminals.

Some common methods spread by these viruses include:

Consuming contaminated food or beverages.

Domestic or sexual contact with an infected person.

Sharing utensils or food.

Poor hand cleanliness.

Handle food by infected workers.

Most infections in children are not taken care of because they often do not show symptoms. “But Hepatitis E, in particular, can be dangerous for pregnant women,” Dr. Khurana says. “It can do abortion in liver failure and even severe cases.”

Unlike B and C, both hepatitis A and E usually cause acute infection-which means they do not rotate for a long time or turn into chronic conditions.

Hepatitis B and C: Silent and Dangerous

In contrast, hepatitis B and C are bloodborn viruses – and are more insidious. “These viruses are often transmitted through infected blood or body fluids,” Dr. Khurana says. “This includes unprotected sex, needle sharing, unprotected tattoos or piercing, or even the child during the child’s child.”

Healthcare workers also face commercial threats due to accidental needle-stick injuries. These types are dangerous because they often become uncontrolled until they have done significant harm. “They become chronic infections, silently damage the liver over time and increase the risk of cirrhosis or liver cancer,” they note.

Common routes of transmission include:

Unprotected sexual contact

Drug-in-injection equipment

Blood transfusion (especially in areas with poor screening protocol)

Piercing or tattoo

Razor or toothbrush

Transmission of mother-to-child

Who should be the most vigilant?

Some groups are at greater risk than others, depending on the type of hepatitis.

Dr. “Children living in congested areas with poor hygiene are highly unsafe for Hepatitis A and E,” says Khurana. “Tourists coming to such areas are also at risk, especially if they consume street food or untreated water.”

On the other hand, many sexual partners, intravenous drug users and healthcare professionals Hepatitis B and C. Are more likely to be contracted.

his advice? “Prevention is better than treatment. Where possible, vaccinated-especially for Hepatitis A and B. Avoid unprotected food, water, and personal hygiene. And if you fall into a high-risk group, regular screening can save your liver and your life.”

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