Infectious diseases

Hepatitis (A,B,C)

Inflammation of the liver caused by a virus, potentially leading to long-term liver damage.
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About

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.

This condition is often invisible.

Many disabilities, including this one, may not have outward signs—people can be significantly impacted even if they appear “fine” on the outside.

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.

Practitioner 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.

Common Accommodations

  • Flexible work hours (for managing health conditions)
  • Modified job duties to accommodate physical limitations
  • Remote work options (for better control of work environment)
  • Privacy and confidentiality: Ensure any discussions about the condition or accommodations are kept private.
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Notes

Williams Syndrome presents a mix of strengths and challenges. Leveraging verbal abilities while providing structured support for spatial tasks and sensory sensitivities helps individuals succeed in the workplace.

May is Williams Syndrome Awareness Month

Resources

  • Hepatitis – symptoms, diagnosis and treatment | healthdirect
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Hepatitis A, B, and C
  • World Health Organisation (WHO) - Hepatitis
Infectious diseases

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