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Viral Hepatitis:
Sports-related Risk.
Anish EJ.
Division of General Internal Medicine, Room 216, SON Building, University of Pittsburgh
Medical Center-Shadyside, 5230 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15217, USA. anishea@upmc.edu
Each year, viral hepatitis causes substantial morbidity and mortality in the general
population. Most athletes who contract viral hepatitis become exposed away from the
playing field. However, close contact with team members and the sharing of food and drink
may increase the likelihood of spreading enteric forms of viral hepatitis, and a small
risk of sports-related transmission of hepatitis B and C virus exists. Health care
providers must make decisions regarding the timing of an infected athlete's safe return to
athletic activity and be able to counsel athletes about the risks of viral transmission
during sports. Individuals with acute and chronic hepatitis may tolerate exercise and
sports participation quite well. Clinical signs and symptoms will often help guide
return-to-play decisions. Attention to general hygiene practices, the standards of
universal precautions, athlete immunization, and continued educational efforts can help
prevent the acquisition and spread of viral hepatitis both on and off the field.
SOURCE:
Curr Sports Med Rep. 2004
Apr;3(2):100-6
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