Each year there are approximately 300,000 new cases in the United States. It is a viral infection that can be spread through sexual contact or infected blood that affects the liver. However, some people will show symptoms. These symptoms are similar to a stomach virus. Symptoms may not appear for up to six months after exposure.
Some people become very ill quickly after infection.
A diagnosis must be made by a physician. Testing requires that a small sample of blood be taken. There is no cure. Treatment includes rest, combined with a high protein diet to repair damaged cells and a high carbohydrate diet to protect the liver. Some infected persons are treated with Alpha Interferon.