Delta Hepatitis, Hepatitis D

What is Delta Hepatitis (Hepatitis D)?

Delta Hepatitis (Hepatitis D) is a liver disease caused by the Hepatitis D virus. Symptoms are similar to Hepatitis B and may include fever, lack of energy, nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and jaundice (yellow color to the whites of the eyes or skin and darkening of urine). Some persons who have Hepatitis D have no symptoms. Up to 20% of Hepatitis D infections are rapidly fatal. Infected persons may recover or may develop chronic, long-term Hepatitis D (carrier) and are at risk for cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and liver failure.

Where does Hepatitis D come from?

Hepatitis D is an infection of humans. Acute Hepatitis D infection may be followed by recovery but usually becomes chronic and can cause symptoms for years. An infected person with no symptoms can still spread Hepatitis D to others.

How is Hepatitis D spread?

Hepatitis D infection can only occur along with Hepatitis B infection. Infection with Hepatitis D can happen in a person with chronic Hepatitis B infection, or new infections with Hepatitis B and Hepatitis D may occur at the same time. The virus is spread by direct contact with the blood or less commonly with sexual fluids of an infected person. This can happen by sharing needles with injection drug users who are infected with Hepatitis D. Infected women can pass the virus to their babies but this is thought to occur at a low rate. Hepatitis D is not associated with a sex predilection.

How soon do symptoms appear?

In approximately two to eight weeks from time of exposure.

What is the treatment ?

There is no treatment available for the Hepatitis D infection.

Is there a vaccine for Hepatitis D?

No. There are vaccines for both Hepatitis A and B, but not for Hepatitis D. Since Hepatitis D is dependent on Hepatitis B infection, preventing Hepatitis B infections will prevent Hepatitis D infection. This can be done by vaccinating people against Hepatitis B or by reducing transmission of Hepatitis B.

How common is Hepatitis D?

Delta Hepatitis is rare in the U.S.

How can infected persons prevent the spread of Hepatitis D?

• Do not share any blood testing devices, needles, or other drug equipment.
• Do not donate blood or organs.
• Do not share razors, toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, nail clippers, files, cuticle cutters, or any other personal items that might have infected blood on them.
• Let health care professionals who may be exposed to Hepatitis D blood know.
• Recommend that any regular sexual partner be vaccinated for Hepatitis B. Although sexual transmission appears to be low, inform sexual partners, and consider using latex condoms and barriers.
• Cover cuts or open sores.

What should I do if I suspect someone has Hepatitis D?

Contact your primary health care provider or call your local health department.