Preventing the infections

Hepatitis B (HBV) can be prevented with a vaccine. The vaccine is recommended for all babies, children and any adults who haven't received it yet. If a baby is born to someone with HBV, the vaccine and a shot of medicine called hepatitis B immune globulin can greatly lower the chance of infection.

For babies born to someone who doesn't have HBV, the U.S. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices now recommend that parents and healthcare professionals decide together when to start the HBV vaccine. If the birth dose is skipped, the first shot should not be given until a baby is at least 2 months old.

The experts also note that checking a child's antibody levels later may help determine whether more doses of the vaccine are needed.

Adults also should take steps to stay away from contaminated blood and body fluids. For example, practice safe sex and don't share needles or razors.

Hepatitis C is different because there's no vaccine currently available. The best way to prevent hep C is to practice safe sex and not share needles or other equipment used to inject drugs.