Hepatitis means "inflammation of the liver". The liver is located in the upper right abdomen. It helps to clean the blood and assists in breaking down fats. It stores sugar (glucagon) for energy, and vitamins and minerals for release to the body. It is vital to good health. Inflammation of the liver can result in nausea, weakness, loss of appetite, fever and yellowing of the skin and eyes. It can be mild, or very serious (even causing death). Hepatitis may be caused by a viral infection, a complication of other diseases, or a toxic reaction to alcohol, drugs, or chemicals. Vaccination is helpful in preventing or treating viral hepatitis. But, not all viruses which cause hepatitis have preventive vaccines. There are vaccines for hepatitis A (infectious hepatitis) , and hepatitis B (serum hepatitis).

Hepatitis A is spread through contaminated water or food. Those at high risk for hepatitis A include:
* residents and staff of institutions (such as prisons, mental institutions, and board and care homes) ,
* travelers to areas with high rates, and
* lab workers.

Three shots are given. The second, one month after the first, and the final one, six to twelve months after the first dose. Travelers who have not received a previous dose should receive IG with the first dose. Check with your healthcare provider for his or her advice.

Hepatitis B is spread through sexual activity, and infected blood. Hepatitis B has been linked to liver cancer, as well as hepatitis D. Those at highest risk include:
* renal dialysis patients,
* newborns of infected mothers,
* healthcare providers, medical lab workers and students,
* IV drug users who share needles, and their partners,
* sexually active homosexual men, and
* prison inmates.

Adults require a series of 3 to 4 vaccinations. Federal health agencies suggest vaccination of all infants and children in the U.S. Babies receive their first hepatitis B vaccination before they leave the hospital. Two additional shots are given, one at two or four months, and the third dose at age 6 to 18 months.

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