Hepatitis D

Hepatitis D is a preventable liver disease caused by the hepatitis delta virus (HDV) and relies on the hepatitis B Virus (HBV) to replicate.

Hepatitis D is rare in most developed countries, however it is much more common in Mediterranean countries, sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and countries in the northern part of South America.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hepatitis D are identical to those of hepatitis B. These symptoms include:

  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
  • Tiredness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Joint pain
  • Pain in the stomach area
  • Nausea

 

Causes

Hepatitis D is transmitted in similar ways to hepatitis B.

  • Contact with infectious blood or blood products
  • Exposure to contaminated needles
  • Household transmission
  • Sexual transmission

 

For more information on hepatitis D, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/hepatitis-d