Hepatitis D

​Counsel patients on preventing transmission of hepatitis D virus (HDV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) to others and the importance of lifelong monitoring.

Lifestyle modifications to optimise body weight and treat metabolic complications are recommended in order to prevent the development of metabolic syndrome and fatty liver.

Advise patients who have chronic HDV to:[2]Terrault NA, Lok ASF, McMahon BJ, et al. Update on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of chronic hepatitis B: AASLD 2018 hepatitis B guidance. Hepatology. 2018 Apr;67(4):1560-99. https://www.doi.org/10.1002/hep.29800 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29405329?tool=bestpractice.com

• Have household and sexual contacts vaccinated if they test negative for HBV serological markers

• Use barrier protection during sex if their partner is not vaccinated or is not naturally immune to HBV

• Not share toothbrushes, razors, injection equipment, or glucose testing equipment

• Not donate blood, organs, or semen

• Cover open cuts and scratches

• Clean blood spills with bleach

• Vaccinate against hepatitis A virus if not immune

• Abstain from, or limit, alcohol use.