Is a disease that is characterized by the inflammation of the liver. It lasts from 3 to 6 weeks, but can persist up to 6 months. Most patients recover with no serious long term health problems.
Symptoms are more severe in adults than in children who often have no symptoms.
HAV is spread when infected human feces is ingested by mouth. For people already exposed to the virus, immune globulin can reduce the risk of infection if given within 14 days of exposure. Most adults fight off infection and have no long-term health problems. HBV is spread through contact with infected body fluids or blood. The vaccine is recommended as part of the routine schedule of childhood immunizations.