Viral hepatitis are infections caused by different types of viruses that attack the liver, mainly hepatitis viruses A, B, C, D and E. In many cases, the disease may not cause symptoms in the early stages, making early diagnosis difficult. When not identified and treated properly, especially hepatitis B and C, they can progress to chronic liver inflammation, cirrhosis, liver failure and even liver cancer.

According to the Epidemiological Bulletin of Viral Hepatitis 2025, from the Ministry of Health, Brazil recorded more than 826 thousand confirmed cases of viral hepatitis between 2000 and 2024. Hepatitis C represents 41.5% of diagnoses, followed by hepatitis B, with 36.6%. Although mortality has decreased in recent decades thanks to advances in vaccination and treatment, prevention remains essential, especially in situations involving contact with blood.

Below, Dr. Valdir Sabbaga Amato, infectious disease specialist available at Doctoralia and associate professor at the Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine at the University of São Paulo (USP), explains what is myth and what is true about viral hepatitis.

1. Sharing toothbrushes or razors can transmit viral hepatitis

True. Personal objects that may come into contact with small amounts of blood should not be shared. Even without visible blood, there is a possibility of transmission of hepatitis B and C viruses.

“These are objects that can cause minor injuries and, therefore, pose a risk when shared. The recommendation is that they should always be used individually”, advises Dr. Valdir Sabbaga Amato.

2. People with hepatitis always have symptoms, such as yellow skin and eyes

Mito. Not everyone develops symptoms. In many cases, especially in hepatitis B and Cthe infection can remain silent for years, being identified only in routine exams or when there is already some liver involvement. “The absence of symptoms does not mean the absence of the disease. This is precisely one of the reasons why early diagnosis is so important”, says the infectious disease specialist.

3. There are vaccines for all viral hepatitis

Mito. Currently, there are effective vaccines against hepatitis A and B. There is still no vaccine for hepatitis C, which makes prevention measures and testing even more important. “Vaccination is one of the main prevention tools for some hepatitis, but it does not protect against all types. Therefore, safe habits and medical monitoring remain essential”, highlights the specialist.

4. All hepatitis can be contracted in the same way

Mito. The forms of transmission vary according to the type of viral hepatitis. Hepatitis A and E are transmitted mainly by ingesting contaminated water or food and are related to inadequate sanitation and hygiene conditions. Hepatitis B, C and D can be transmitted through contact with contaminated blood. In the case of hepatitis B, there is also a risk of transmission through unprotected sexual intercourse and from mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth.

“Although they all affect the liver, viral hepatitis is not contracted in the same way. Knowing the forms of transmission for each type is essential to adopt appropriate prevention measures”, explains Dr. Valdir Sabbaga Amato.

5. Viral hepatitis can be treated and, in some cases, can be cured

True. Advances in medicine have allowed increasingly effective treatments. Hepatitis C, for example, has high cure rates when diagnosed and treated appropriately. Hepatitis B, in turn, can be controlled, reducing the risk of complications.

“The earlier the infection is identified, the greater the chances of effective treatment and prevention of complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Therefore, people who have had risk situations or have never been tested should talk to a healthcare professional”, concludes Dr. Valdir Sabbaga Amato.

By Barbara Cheffer