Final answer:
Hepatitis Type D is caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV) and can only infect individuals who are already infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV). The primary source of HDV is contact with infected blood, and other risk factors include needle-sharing, unprotected sex with an infected individual, and certain medical procedures. Vaccination against HBV can protect against HDV infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
The subject of this question is Hepatitis Type D. Hepatitis D is caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV) which is an enveloped ssRNA(-) virus. Unlike the other types of hepatitis, HDV requires the presence of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) to replicate, which means that HDV can only infect individuals who are already infected with HBV.
The primary source of HDV is contact with infected blood, which can occur through needle-sharing among drug users or through other forms of blood contact. Other risk factors for HDV infection include being born to a mother who is infected with HDV, having unprotected sex with an individual who is infected with HDV, and undergoing certain medical procedures that involve potential blood exposure.
Currently, there is no specific vaccine available for HDV. However, since HDV requires HBV for replication, vaccination against HBV can protect against HDV infection. Vaccination against HBV is recommended for individuals who are at risk of HDV infection.