1 There are two types of hepatitis – B and C.
■ False! There are many types of hepatitis: A, B, C, D, E and more.
2 Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver.
■ True! Some types of hepatitis pass without causing the liver permanent damage. Others can cause cirrhosis, loss of liver function and, in extreme cases, can be fatal.
3 The symptoms are like having the flu.
■ True! But sometimes, there are no symptoms at all. Other symptoms can include jaundice and even depression.
4 It’s a sexually transmitted disease, so the best prevention is wearing a condom.
■ False! You can get hepatitis through having unprotected sex, but it’s also caused by sharing drug equipment and even by drinking too much. There are vaccines for some types, but not all.