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Hepatitis is a generic term for inflammation of the liver. It is caused by a large number of viruses, other infectious agents, and toxins. However, for the traveler, viral hepatitis is the major concern. There are four hepatitis viruses of which all travelers should be particularly aware: A, B, C, and E. The means of transmission and long-term effects vary, depending upon which virus causes the disease. Hepatitis A and E are transmitted primarily by contaminated food and water. High-risk areas are lesser-developed countries where poor sanitation results in fecal contamination of groundwater, tap water, and well water. Outbreaks of hepatitis A are also caused by food that has been contaminated by an infected foodhandler. Hepatitis B and C are spread by sexual contact, exchange of body fluids, injections from contaminated needles and syringes, and unscreened blood transfusions. For more on this topic, click here for the complete International Travel HealthGuide Chapter 11: Hepatitis
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