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Hepatitis in Children

Date: 07/11/22

What is hepatitis in children?

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. It can damage and destroy liver cells.

Key points about hepatitis in children – What Parents Can Do

Hearing about severe liver disease in children can be concerning. If you have any questions about your child’s health, call your child’s healthcare provider.

  • Hepatitis in children can be caused by many things. Your child can get hepatitis by being exposed to a virus that causes it.
  • There are 5 main types of the hepatitis virus: A, B, C, D, and E.
  • The most common symptoms of hepatitis include a yellowish color to the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice) and flu-like symptoms.
  • Be aware of the symptoms of liver inflammation, which include:
    • fever
    • fatigue
    • loss of appetite
    • nausea
    • vomiting
    • abdominal pain
    • dark urine
    • light-colored stools (poop)
    • joint pain
    • jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
  • Some children do not have any symptoms.
  • Keep children up to date on all their vaccinations.
  • Having good hygiene can prevent hepatitis.
    • washing hands often,
    • avoiding people who are sick,
    • covering coughs and sneezes, and
    • teaching them to avoid touching the eyes, nose, or mouth

 

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