Some of the most common symptoms of both hepatitis B and hepatitis C are stomach pain, jaundice (yellow skin or eyes), dark urine, low-grade fever, loss of appetite and fatigue.

Hepatitis B is transmitted through bodily fluid including blood and semen. People can become infected with hepatitis B in several ways, including birth (spread from the infected mother to the infant), sex with an infected partner, sharing needles or other drug equipment, sharing items like toothbrushes or razors and direct contact with an infected person’s blood or open wound.

Hepatitis C is usually spread when the blood of a person infected with the virus enters the body of someone who is not infected. Most commonly, hepatitis C is spread through sharing needles or other implements used to prepare and inject drugs. Hepatitis C can also be spread from mother to child at birth. It is less common, though still possible, to contract HCV through sex or sharing personal items (e.g. toothbrushes, razors).

That depends on a variety of factors. People with hepatitis B should consult with their doctor to determine their best course of action and they should be monitored regularly. There are several medications available to treat chronic hepatitis B. Once a patient starts treatment, they typically take medication for life.

In many cases, hepatitis C is curable. There are several specialty medications available to treat HCV. A doctor will prescribe medications and regimens based on an individual’s genotype and other factors. Regimens typically include oral medications and last 8-12 weeks.