Question

Hepatitis D - How is it transmitted when is it most infectious, incubation?

a) Bloodborne transmission, most infectious during the acute phase, incubation 2-12 weeks
b) Sexual transmission, most infectious during the convalescent phase, incubation 3-5 days
c) Fecal-oral route, most infectious during the prodromal period, incubation 2-8 weeks
d) Requires co-infection with Hepatitis B for transmission

Answer 1

It requires co-infection with Hepatitis B for transmission.Thus option d is the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hepatitis D, also known as the Delta virus, is unique in its transmission requirements. The correct answer is (d) as Hepatitis D can only be transmitted in the presence of Hepatitis B. This implies that individuals with Hepatitis B can become co-infected with Hepatitis D, leading to more severe liver disease than either infection alone. The co-infection occurs when a person with Hepatitis B is exposed to the Hepatitis D virus.

The co-infection with Hepatitis B is a prerequisite for the transmission of Hepatitis D because the Hepatitis D virus does not possess the ability to enter cells on its own. It relies on the envelope proteins of Hepatitis B to form infectious viral particles. Therefore, the coexistence of Hepatitis B provides the necessary machinery for the Hepatitis D virus to replicate and cause infection. This unique relationship between the two viruses underscores the importance of understanding the specific conditions required for the transmission of Hepatitis D.

In summary, the transmission of Hepatitis D requires co-infection with Hepatitis B, highlighting the interdependence of these two viruses. It is crucial for healthcare providers and the public to be aware of this distinctive mode of transmission to implement effective preventive measures, especially in regions where Hepatitis B is prevalent.It requires co-infection with Hepatitis B for transmission.Thus option d is the correct answer.