Hepatitis is a condition where the liver becomes inflamed. It can be caused by viruses, toxins, alcohol, certain medicines, or even the body’s own immune system attacking the liver.
If not treated, hepatitis can lead to serious problems like liver damage, cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), or liver cancer. In Indonesia, hepatitis is a significant public health issue.
Many people don’t know they have the virus until symptoms appear or liver damage has already happened. The World Health Organization estimates that more than 20 million Indonesians are living with hepatitis B or C, many without a diagnosis or treatment.
Hepatitis B is the most common type in Indonesia. Some areas, such as Maluku and Bangka Belitung, have infection rates above 20%.
Understanding the different types of hepatitis and how to prevent them is an important step in protecting yourself and your loved ones. Below are the five main types of hepatitis, what causes them, and how you can lower your risk.
Hepatitis A (HAV) caused by contaminated food or water spreads through the “fecal-oral” route. This often happens in places with poor sanitation or hygiene, making clean eating and drinking habits very important.
Hepatitis A is widespread, with outbreaks often reported in crowded areas and tourist destinations. Bali, for example, has higher exposure risk due to its popularity and the movement of people and imported food.
If you’re traveling to Bali, getting a hepatitis A vaccine is strongly recommended.
Hepatitis B (HBV) caused by contact with infected blood or body fluids can spread in several ways. This includes unprotected sex, sharing needles, or a mother passing it to her baby during childbirth.
Indonesia has one of the highest rates of hepatitis B in Southeast Asia. Many people don’t know they are infected, which increases the risk of spreading it to others.
Chronic hepatitis B can lead to liver scarring (fibrosis), cirrhosis, or liver cancer. It is one of the main causes of liver-related deaths in Indonesia.
Protect yourself and your family, ask about hepatitis B vaccination today.
Hepatitis C (HCV) is caused by a virus that spreads through direct blood contact, often from sharing needles, unsafe medical practices, or receiving unscreened blood transfusions. It’s important to avoid exposure to infected blood to prevent getting HCV.
Many people have no symptoms for years. When they do appear, they may include:
Chronic hepatitis C can slowly damage the liver without obvious warning signs, eventually leading to cirrhosis or liver cancer.
There’s no vaccine yet, but modern antiviral medicines can cure most cases when detected early.
Hepatitis D (HDV) is caused by a virus that only affects people already infected with hepatitis B, as it needs the hepatitis B virus to multiply in the body. This means you can only get HDV if you already have or are exposed to hepatitis B.
If you’re vaccinated for hepatitis B, you’re also safe from hepatitis D.
Hepatitis E (HEV) is caused by a virus that spreads through contaminated water, especially in areas with poor sanitation or during floods and natural disasters. To avoid infection, it’s important to drink clean, safe water and practice good hygiene.
Cases have been reported in West Kalimantan and East Java. Pregnant women are at higher risk of severe illness.
Hepatitis E often clears on its own, but it can be life-threatening during pregnancy.
Not all hepatitis comes from viruses. Other causes include:
In all cases, avoiding known triggers and seeking medical advice early can help prevent permanent liver damage.
They include hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, each with different transmission methods and severity levels.
These are common viral infections that affect the liver. Hepatitis A and E are spread through food or water.
B and C are transmitted through blood and body fluids.
Hepatitis A and E are spread through the digestive system and not through sexual contact.
Both are serious conditions. Hepatitis B has a vaccine, while hepatitis C does not but is curable with treatment.
Seek medical help if you have:
Even without symptoms, regular screening is important, especially if you have risk factors such as travel to high-risk areas, recent medical procedures, or contact with someone who has hepatitis.
Our international hospital offers complete hepatitis care, including:
We follow international safety standards and use reliable diagnostic tools to ensure accurate results. Our care team helps you understand your risks, explains your results, and supports you in protecting your liver health.
If you’re concerned about hepatitis, book a screening at our hospital today.
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