Do you know what the world's deadliest communicable disease is?
It's viral hepatitis.
According to the World Hepatitis Alliance, an estimated 287 million people are living with viral hepatitis. Nearly two million new infections occur each year, and approximately 1.3 million people lose their lives to hepatitis related illnesses.
This World Hepatitis Day, we want to spread awareness by focusing on how viral hepatitis can be prevented. Because even though it is the world's deadliest communicable disease, viral hepatitis can be prevented and treated.
The Different Types of Viral Hepatitis
Viral hepatitis is inflammation of the liver caused by a virus. There are five main types known as hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. While they all affect the liver, they do not spread in the same way and require different prevention methods.
Hepatitis A and hepatitis E are commonly spread through contaminated food or water. These infections are often short term, but they can still cause serious illness, especially in older adults and people with underlying health conditions.
Hepatitis B spreads through contact with infected blood and certain body fluids. It can also be passed from a mother to her baby during childbirth. Some people recover completely, while others develop a long term infection that can increase the risk of cirrhosis or liver cancer.
Hepatitis C is primarily spread through contact with infected blood. Many people have no symptoms for years, making testing especially important. Effective treatments are available, and early diagnosis can help prevent serious liver damage.
Hepatitis D only affects people who already have hepatitis B. Because of this, preventing hepatitis B also helps prevent hepatitis D.
Ways to Help Prevent Hepatitis Infection
Although each type of hepatitis spreads differently, many prevention habits are simple and can easily become part of everyday life.
Practice Good Hand Hygiene
Washing your hands with soap and water before eating, preparing food, and after using the restroom helps reduce the spread of hepatitis A and hepatitis E.
Choose Safe Food and Water
Properly preparing food and drinking safe water can lower the risk of foodborne hepatitis infections. When traveling, be mindful of food safety practices and avoid water from questionable sources.
Stay Up to Date on Vaccinations
Vaccines are available to help protect against hepatitis A and hepatitis B. Because hepatitis D depends on hepatitis B infection, hepatitis B vaccination also provides protection against hepatitis D. Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent these infections. (World Health Organization)
Avoid Contact With Blood
Never share needles, syringes, razors, toothbrushes, or other personal items that may come into contact with blood. If you provide first aid or care for someone else, use appropriate protective equipment whenever possible.
Know Your Status
Many people with hepatitis B or hepatitis C do not know they are infected because symptoms may not appear for many years. Testing allows people to receive appropriate medical care earlier and helps reduce the spread of infection.
Why Awareness Still Matters
Despite the availability of vaccines, testing, and treatment for viral hepatitis, millions of people remain undiagnosed around the world. World Hepatitis Day encourages individuals, families, healthcare professionals, and communities to break down barriers to prevention, testing, and care so more people can receive the support they need. The goal is to reduce new infections and help eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat.
Small Steps Can Make a Big Difference
Protecting your liver does not require major changes overnight. Washing your hands, practicing food safety, staying current on recommended vaccinations, avoiding exposure to infected blood, and speaking with your healthcare provider about testing when appropriate are practical steps that can help lower your risk of hepatitis.
Taking action today can help protect your liver for years to come and contribute to a healthier future for you and your family.
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References
Homewatch CareGivers Boise. Protecting Your Liver Protecting Your Life. https://www.homewatchcaregivers.com/boise/about-us/blog/protecting-your-liver-protecting-your-life/
World Hepatitis Alliance. What Is Viral Hepatitis. https://www.worldhepatitisalliance.org/what-is-viral-hepatitis/
World Hepatitis Day. Official Campaign Website. http://worldhepatitisday.org/
World Health Organization. World Hepatitis Day 2026 Commemoration. https://www.who.int/news-room/events/detail/2026/07/28/default-calendar/world-hepatitis-day-2026-commemoration