Hepatitis D

Hepatitis D is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV). It only infects people who already have hepatitis B, since it needs hepatitis B's virus to replicate. HDV can make hepatitis B infections more severe, leading to rapid liver damage, cirrhosis, or liver failure. It spreads through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids, often via shared needles, unprotected sex, or from mother to child during childbirth. Vaccination against hepatitis B also protects against hepatitis D. Treatments are limited, so prevention through vaccination and avoiding risky behaviors is important.