00:00 The hepatitis A virus likes to run riot on food that's not been thoroughly washed, and
00:07 it thrives in unclean tap water. It can make us humans seriously sick.
00:17 Hepatitis A is an infectious liver disease which is caused by the hepatitis A virus.
00:25 It induces unspecific symptoms, not in all patients, but in those who have symptoms.
00:32 Jaundice, loss of appetite, tiredness, weakness, joint pains are the most common symptoms.
00:43 And where is this virus most prevalent? People in parts of Asia, Africa, Southern Europe,
00:51 and in South and Central America are particularly at risk.
00:56 The good news is that 99% of hepatitis A cases heal on their own without any permanent damage
01:01 to the liver, and infection results in lifelong immunity to the pathogen.
01:07 Hepatitis B and C viruses are much more dangerous. Infections with them can also heal on their
01:12 own but can turn chronic too.
01:16 If hepatitis B and C is chronic and not properly treated, it might cause liver cirrhosis, infections,
01:23 cancer, or in the worst case, death.
01:26 In most cases, it's transmitted somehow over the blood, either by sexual intercourse or
01:33 for example by tattooing when hygiene is not good enough and particles of the blood are
01:39 transmitted in the skin of the recipient.
01:43 While medication can protect you from hepatitis B, it's recommended for all those who frequently
01:47 have sex with different partners, are chronically ill, or work in hospitals.
01:52 Ask about hygiene measures before getting medical or certain types of cosmetic treatment.
01:57 So where hepatitis A is common, don't drink the tap water and always wash fruits and vegetables
02:02 thoroughly. Then hepatitis in any of its forms will have a much tougher time of it.
02:07 (music)
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