Fact 3: Understanding Chronic vs. Acute Infections
Hepatitis infections can manifest in two main forms: acute and chronic. Acute hepatitis is a short-term illness that might occur within the first six months after someone is exposed to the hepatitis virus. Symptoms, if they appear, might be flu-like, but recovery is often complete.
On the other hand, chronic hepatitis is a long-term condition. It develops when the virus remains in the body for extended periods, often leading to severe complications like liver cirrhosis or liver cancer. Notably, Hepatitis B and C have a higher likelihood of becoming chronic conditions.
The progression from acute to chronic can be silent, especially in the case of Hepatitis C. Many individuals might remain asymptomatic or display only mild symptoms, making it essential for regular check-ups and screenings, particularly for high-risk groups.(3)
