"Hepatitis" means inflammation of the liver. It also refers to a group of viruses that travel to the liver, where they multiply and cause inflammation. The most common types of hepatic viral infections are hepatitis B (HBV), and hepatitis C (HCV) infections.
HAV is not considered a bloodborne pathogen. HAV's main mode of transmission is the fecal-oral route and may be introduced into the body through the ingestion of contaminated water or food.
HBV and HCV are bloodborne pathogens, which means they are primarily transmitted through blood and can cause disease.
1. Palmer, Erskine. "This transmission electron microscopic (TEM) image revealed the presence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) particles. The round virions, which measure 42nm in diameter, are known as Dane particles. See PHIL 10755, for a colorized version of this image." CDC Public Health Image Library. 1981, https://phil.cdc.gov/Details.aspx?pid=270. Accessed February 13, 2023.
