Final answer:
Hepatitis D (HDV) can only infect an individual who has previously been infected with hepatitis B.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hepatitis D (HDV)
Hepatitis D is the form of hepatitis that can only infect an individual who has previously been infected with hepatitis B. HDV is an enveloped ssRNA(-) virus that can only propagate in the presence of hepatitis B virus (HBV). This means that HDV requires the presence of HBV in the body to cause an infection.
HDV infection can occur concurrently with acute HBV infection or as a superinfection in individuals with chronic HBV infection. It is important that individuals who have been previously infected with HBV take precautions to prevent further exposure to HDV.