with each other in the body, and so can affect immune responses. Being infected with hepatitis C can suppress the replication of the hepatitis B virus, and the reverse is also true. It is even possible for each virus to inhibit the other simultaneously, or to alternate which inhibits the other. It is important to remember that this does not mean that the inhibited virus is gone from the body. Instead, its effects may be hidden or halted until the other virus is treated, and then may flare up again. TREATMENT Seeing a doctor or liver nurse who knows you and your medical history is particularly important when you are living with hepatitis co-infection, so that they can determine which form of treatment is best and safest for you. The good news for those co-infected with both hepatitis B and C is that hepatitis C is curable. Direct-acting antiviral medications (DAAs) can cure more than 95% of hepatitis C cases. Hepatitis B cannot be cured, but it can be managed.
However, there is evidence to suggest that all hepatitis C-positive people with a history of hepatitis B should be aware of the potential reactivation of hep B during hep C treatment using DAAs, which can cause further liver damage. Anyone beginning hep C treatment who has been exposed to hep B in the past should be monitored for hep B flare-ups or reactivation during their treatment, as well as during follow-up after treatment. Hepatitis B is managed through one of two types of treatment: interferon (weekly injections which boost the immune system’s fight against the virus) or antivirals (a daily tablet which limits the virus’s ability to reproduce). VACCINATION Anyone who is living with hepatitis C should consider being vaccinated against hepatitis B to prevent co-infection. There is no vaccine against hepatitis C.
Hepatitis SA
Ph 1800 437 222 or (08) 8362 8443 Kaurna Country 3 Hackney Rd Hackney SA 5069 PO Box 782 Kent Town SA 5071 www.hepsa.asn.au
Hepatitis B/ Hepatitis C Co-infection
Last update: Aug 2021 SA Health has contributed funds towards this Program.
A Beginner’s Guide