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Hepatitis D

Overview

Infection with the hepatitis D virus (HDV), or delta agent, occurs only in people who are already infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). HDV infection may make HBV infection more severe.

In people who have long-term (chronic) HBV infection, HDV infection can make liver disease worse. Or it can cause a person who did not have symptoms before to develop liver problems more rapidly.

Vaccination against hepatitis B will also prevent hepatitis D virus infection.

Hepatitis D virus infection is rare in Canada and the United States.

Credits

Current as of: October 31, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
W. Thomas London MD - Hepatology