If HAV total antibody is positive Then the sample is tested for HAV IgM antibody. Hepatitis B Screening includes HB surface antigen, HB total core antibody, and HB surface antibody. Hepatitis C Screening includes total HCV antibody. HAV is passed between people via the fecal oral route. HCV is acquired primarily through blood, IV drug use, transfusions prior to 1992, or needle sticks.
Risk is low in persons in monogamous relationships and mother to child during birth.
Symptoms of an HAV infection start from 15 to 50 days after infection and include fever, loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, vomiting, and jaundice. Asymptomatic infections can occur most notably in children. HBV can also become chronic. Most chronic HBV carriers are asymptomatic, and are more prone to developing cirrhosis of the liver and liver cancer. Most people will be asymptomatic.