Hepatitis usually has a good prognosis and resolves on its own within a few weeks or months. However, this is not always the case. Some hepatitis can sometimes leave significant sequelae for life. Prevention therefore becomes essential.

To avoid contracting hepatitis B or C, it is essential to use a condom during sex, unless you have a stable partner. The use of contaminated or potentially contaminated needles or syringes is obviously to be avoided. Also, since tattoos are now very fashionable, make sure that the material used is properly sterilized or disposable. The same goes for the needles used during acupuncture treatments.

Finally, if you have hepatitis B or C, there are ways to treat and often cure these conditions. Consult your doctor about this.

D^r Jacques Allard, MD, FCMFC