About this profile
Hepatitis is liver inflammation caused by a virus. There are three main types:
- Hepatitis A Virus (HAV): Spread by contaminated food or water. Also transmitted through person-to-person between household contacts or sex partners. It is usually short-term and does not cause long-term liver damage.
- Hepatitis B Virus (HBV): Spread through infected bodily fluids (like blood or semen). It can cause long-term liver problems like cirrhosis or liver cancer.
- Hepatitis C Virus (HCV): Spread mainly through blood (like sharing needles). It can also cause long-term liver damage.
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Common challenges
- Fatigue: Makes it hard to stay energised at work.
- Weakness: Low energy, strength and stamina.
- Frequent medical visits: May need time off for doctor appointments or treatments.
- Mental health impacts: Stress, anxiety, or depression can affect focus and performance.
- Stigma and discrimination: Concerns about being treated unfairly at work because of the disease.
- Physical limitations: Some may experience joint pain or digestive issues that affect their work.
- Risk of complications: Hepatitis B or C may cause severe health problems, leading to sick leave.
- Fatigue from medication side effects: Some treatments may cause tiredness or mood changes, affecting work.
How to help
- Encourage open communication: Help participants talk about their health with their employer.
- Guide on managing energy levels: Assist in balancing work and rest to reduce fatigue.
- Provide mental health support: Suggest stress-relief techniques and offer therapy resources if needed.
- Assist with self-advocacy: Teach how to request workplace accommodations and manage relationships.
- Help with job modifications: Suggest flexible hours or less physically demanding tasks.
- Connect with support networks: Refer to groups for emotional support and advice.