Getting both viruses at the same time

Some people pick up both viruses at the same time. These people are likely to have a short (acute) infection that their immune system normally clears within 6 months. You might have no symptoms at all or have symptoms that feel like flu, with a temperature, tiredness, and feeling or being sick. It’s very similar to having an acute case of hepatitis B.

Very rarely, the liver can stop working properly. This is called acute liver failure or fulminant hepatitis. Tell your doctor if you still feel unwell after 4 weeks. The most important symptom to be aware of is jaundice, you might notice:

• a yellow colour to your skin or eyes
• dark coloured pee
• pale coloured poo

Fulminant hepatitis can be treated with antiviral medicine. In very rare cases, some people need to have a liver transplant.

Some people with acute hepatitis will not clear the infection. Infections that last more than six months are called chronic hepatitis. You should be referred to a specialist who will help you manage your condition and look after your health.

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Getting hepatitis D when you already live with hepatitis B

Other people pick up hepatitis D when they are already living with hepatitis B. These people are more likely to get a long-term (chronic) hepatitis D infection.

You might not notice any new symptoms, so lots of people do not know they have hepatitis D. Living with both viruses can mean your liver gets damaged more quickly, so serious liver disease is more likely. Treatment helps manage the viruses and slow down or stop liver damage.

If you live with hepatitis B, always tell your specialist about any new or changing symptoms. Even if you don’t think they are related to your condition.

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Protecting yourself from hepatitis D

Hepatitis D is passed on through blood and other body fluids. This includes through unprotected sex and by sharing things that can get blood on them such as razors, tools for tattoos and piercings, or needles.

It can also be passed from a mother to her baby.  But this is less common now as babies born to mothers living with hepatitis B and D are vaccinated against hepatitis B at birth. This protects them against both hepatitis B and hepatitis D.

You can protect yourself from hepatitis D by:

• Using condoms or other types of barrier contraception
• Never sharing razors or toothbrushes
• Never sharing needles for medicines or drugs
• Only using regulated tattoo and piercing parlours

Being vaccinated against hepatitis B also helps protect you against hepatitis D. Read more about hepatitis B vaccinations.

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