How are hepatitis a and b different?

Hepatitis: Hepatitis a is acute, usually gets better on its own, and is spread in contaminated food and water. Hepatitis b can be both acute or chronic and is spread through blood or other bodily fluids (ie. Sexual contact, sharing of needles, etc.). Chronic hepatitis b can lead to more serious conditions like cirrhosis causing impaired liver function.

Hepatitis A,B, or C: Hepatitis a is often acute & frequently resolves spontaneously, but may be prolonged & severe. Hepatitis a is contracted from contaminated food & water. Hepatitis b & c can be both acute or chronic & is spread through contamination with body fluids like blood. Both hep b & c are transmitted through sexual contact or sharing of needles. Vaccines are presently only available for hepatitis a & b.