Are there vaccines to prevent Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C?

Answer 1

There are two forms of hepatitis B: Acute (self-clearing) or chronic. According to Wikipedia, "Acute hepatitis B infection does not usually require treatment because most adults clear the infection spontaneously."

1% of acute cases may require early antiviral treatment, for example if there disease is particularly aggressive, or if the patient is immunocompromised.

There are currently no drugs which will clear a chronic hepatitis b infection, however drugs are available which slow the replication of the virus, hence reducing liver damage and improving quality of life. These are all "antiviral" drugs. These are frequently used in those with chronic hepatitis B.

Another issue is that, even when a person appears to be "cured" of hepatitis B, the disease can be "reactivated" and occur again in the same person. However this is mainly an issue for immunocompromised patients.

Hepatitis B is preventable by vaccination (usually a course of three injections, given over a year, but course length and timing of each dose is individualised according to the patients requirements).

As a general answer to your question, no, there is no "cure" for hepatitis B, however it is "treatable".

Please see related link for more in-depth information.

Answer 2

There is no vaccine for someone who already has the virus. That being said, you should get the Hepatitis A vaccine to further protect yourself, and your liver, should you be exposed to it. As a carrier of Hep b you should know that you should never share toothbrushes or razors. Avoid alcohol to avoid further damaging your liver. Also, everyone in your household should be vaccinated against Hep b. Always use condoms with intercourse, because Hep b can be spread through bodily secretions, and make sure that your partner knows you are infected and that they get vaccinated to protect themselves.

Answer 3

I'm not too sure, but it wouldn't be as likely as if that person didn't get a vaccine. If you get a vaccine, you wouldn't be immune to it, but just more well defended against it. So technically, it still might happen, just chances of it happening would be decreased.

Answer 4

The most commonly used vaccine today is called 'Twinrix'. It immunizes against HepA and B.

Answer 5

There are vaccines to prevent Hepatitis A and B; however, there is no vaccine for Hepatitis C.