Hepatitis D Facts

Hepatitis D virus (HDV) infections occur only in those who are infected with HBV.

• Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a ribonucleic acid (RNA) virus that requires hepatitis B virus (HBV) for its replication. HDV infection occurs only simultaneously or as super-infection with HBV.
• The virus is transmitted through contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person.
• Vertical transmission from mother to child is rare.
• Approximately 15 million people across the world are chronically coinfected with HDV and HBV1
• Currently there is no effective antiviral treatment for hepatitis D.
• Hepatitis D infection can be prevented by hepatitis B immunization.

* The dual infection of HDV and HBV can result in a more serious disease and worse outcome. Hepatitis B vaccines provide protection from HDV infection.

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