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Liver Update: AASLD recommendations of COVID-19 and Viral Hepatitis for Patients and Their Families

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eMediNexus    26 July 2021

One of the objective of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) is to enhance understanding of normal population about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection and prevention in people with viral hepatitis.Information about COVID-19 in people with chronic viral hepatitis is evolving. Below mentioned are certain evidence that should be known to general population.•    Symptoms of COVID-19 infection include any of the following; fever, chills, drowsiness, cough, congestion or runny nose, difficulty breathing, fatigue, body aches, headache, sore throat, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of sense of taste or smell. •    People with underlying cirrhosis of the liver, inclusive of liver injury caused by viral hepatitis, are predisposed to a higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 illness and/or more problems from their existing liver disease if they get coninfected with COVID-19. They are also associated with prolonged hospitalization and increased mortality. These patients need to take caution to avoid COVID-19 infection. COVID-19 may influence the processes and procedures for screening, diagnosis, and treatment of viral hepatitis.•    There is scarce information regarding the effect of COVID-19 on patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV); hence, more studies are required to elucidate the interactions of these infections. •    Limited data is available about the effect of hepatitis C virus (HCV) on the course of COVID-19. •    Patients with viral hepatitis who are older than 65 years of age or have other medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease, obesity, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, and kidney disease, are at a increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19.•    COVID-19 infection and certain medications used for treatment may be related to liver injury. The effect of viral hepatitis on these cases is not well understood.•    The safety of returning to work or other activities is based on the severity of your liver disease, whether you have other medical problems, current COVID-19 transmission in your community, and whether measures to prevent transmission are being practiced.•    The COVID-19 pandemic has raised stress and anxiety for many people around health, family, economic security, and other issues. Thus, it is advisable to take mental health guidance, and maintain healthy habits, such as exercising regularly, getting fresh air, eating wholesome foods, and getting regular sleep.AASLD recommendations for patients and their families•    Contact your healthcare professional or seek medical attention immediately if you think you or someone in your family may have COVID-19. Also, do not forget to inform your medical provider that you have chronic viral hepatitis•    Consult doctor immediately, if you are experiencing difficulty breathing, chest pain or pressure, confusion, inability to wake up or stay awake, bluish lips, face, or toes, or any severe or concerning symptoms.•    Do not discontinue or alter your prescribed medications unless recommended by your health care provider as it can cause a flare of your liver disease or other health problems. •    Keep yourself safe, and help prevent COVID-19 transmission in your community by practicing physical distancing (at least 6 feet) and avoiding crowds. Wear a cloth face covering over your nose, mouth, and chin when outside your home. Follow handwashing regularly to prevent COVID-19 transmission. •    Do not consume alcohol, as it can worsen any underlying liver disease, irrespective of the cause.

Source: COVID-19 and Viral Hepatitis- Important Information for Patients and Their Families-AASLD. Available at: https://www.aasld.org/sites/default/files/2020-10/COVID19-Flyer-ViralHepatitis.pdf

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